A mullet haircut is one of those returning trends that cannot leave anyone indifferent. Some people cannot stand it, others make it their signature hairstyle. But no one stands aside. No matter which side you are on, you may want to know more about this debatable types hairstyle, especially now that it has made a huge comeback as a fashion trend. To enlighten you on the topic, we have prepared this informative guide.

ADVERTISEMENT

What is a Mullet Haircut?

But first things first, what is a mullet haircut? Well, to tell the truth, you can hardly find a more unconventional and recognizable hair look than this one. It is one of those mens haircuts that have very definite characteristics, which allow them to stand out from numerous others. As such, the mullet haircut features a short top with even shorter sides and a noticeably longer back. While originally it was mainly worn by men, there are plenty of female mullet haircut styles nowadays.

ADVERTISEMENT

The History of Mullet Haircut

The History of Mullet
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

The first appearance of the hairstyle dates back to the 1970s-80s. Both women and men opted for a muller as their go to hair look. The original version of the cut combines a long back with a short top. They were gradually blended with each other. Thick sideburns and whiskers accompanied the look most of the time. The noughties were the period when the mullet first reappeared as a hair trend. Yet, at the time, it was much shorter compared to its prototype and included faded or undercut sides.

Is Mullet Back?

 Is Mullet Back?
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

The mullet haircut has resurged recently. This is provided you have ever considered it to be gone into oblivion. The modern mullet haircut is often enhanced with bold and trendy accents, such as a fade, a taper or an undercut on the sides, while still having a somewhat retro vibe. The top is mid length and the back is elongated. But what distinguishes the contemporary mullet from the traditional one is the fact that nowadays, the hairstyle is incredibly versatile and has set off multiple cool variations for every hair type.

ADVERTISEMENT

Different Styles of Mullet Haircuts

To back up our words, we have put together the most popular mens mullet haircut ideas, trending nowadays. So now you can simply check them all out and select the one that appeals to you most.

Short Hair Mullet

If you have always shied away from a mens mullet because you are not a fan of long haircuts, then you just need to adjust its length a bit to suit your preferences. A buzz cut mullet has the same aesthetic as its original longer version, yet requires less maintenance and styling time.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mullet Fade

If you remember what is a mullet, then you must know that this is a haircut that features long hair in the back with the top being relatively short and even shorter sides. The latter may be achieved by simply trimming the hair one length or going for something more elaborate, such as a faded mullet.

80s Mullet

Are you a devotee of retro mullet haircuts? We cannot blame you. They do have a special charm. So, it comes as no surprise that you may want to get one of the 80s mullets for men. The cut requires you to grow the hair in the back quite long, so it can hardly be called low maintenance. Yet, it is worth the effort.

Mullet Taper

Apart from a fade, the sides in the mullet hair cut may feature a taper. Since it is less bald than a fade, it gives an impression of a quite moderate hair look. So, you can feel free to sport it to work, especially in case you go with a low taper fade.

ADVERTISEMENT

Burst Fade Mullet

To give your mullet men hairstyle an intricate twist, complement it with a burst fade. This haircut has a very defined pattern so you will not confuse it with any other. In case you are in doubt whether your barber can deliver the exact haircut you want, tell them that the hair should be faded following the ear curvature.

Middle Part Mullet

If you think that with mullet hairstyles you will be limited in styling, we are here to prove you wrong. There are quite a few ways to give your mullet a new look. As such, you can divide it with a middle part and be good to go. This simple yet impactful style works especially well if you have curly hair.

Wolf Cut Men

Whenever it is impossible to choose between mullet hair and a wolf haircut men often opt for both and we are not surprised. A mullet wolf cut takes the best features from them, namely the gradual layering of the mens wolf cut and the silhouette of mullet styles. As a result, you end up with a very unique and fashionable hair look.

ADVERTISEMENT

Long Mullet

In case a short mullet haircut is not something you are leaning toward, then a classic long mullet man style may be exactly what you need. Of course, it is not for everyone. Your attitude and personal style set the tone and define how organic the mullet haircut is going to look on you.

Bowl Cut Mullet

Although a mullet already has a bowl like shape, it may not be quite pronounced because of a great number of layers. If you want to show off the shape of your cut more, ask the barber to incorporate a bowl cut into your mullet. Trust us, you will not be disappointed with the result.

Modern Mullet

A modern interpretation of a mullet is extremely versatile. This may be a short mullet fade with a hair design on the sides or a perm mullet, which is a real savior for guys who want to try on a curly hair mullet but have naturally straight locks. The range of options is almost endless.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mid Taper Mullet

A mid taper fade is a golden mean when it is hard to choose whether you want an ultra edgy or a quite subtle mullet cut. It can also be successfully combined with a mullet fade haircut for an even trendier appearance. Or wear it solo if you are aiming for a more office appropriate look.

High Taper Mullet

Want a haircut that would take you to center stage no matter where you go? A high taper fade mullet is your best bet. To tone it down a bit, consider a high taper mullet without a fade. It is still trendy and stylish, yet with a more formal feel.

Undercut Curly Mullet Haircut

Undercut Curly Mullet
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

Like we said before, you can make a modern mullet work for any type of hair and curly locks are no exception. A curly mullet haircut calls for a bold accompaniment, such as an undercut. On the one hand, it draws more attention to your defined top and on the other hand, it makes your locks easier to maintain.

ADVERTISEMENT

Short Mullet

Short Mullet Haircut for Men
Credit photo: Instagram.com/shrunknheads

A short mullet haircut is how you wear it nowadays. If a classic style was often described as awkward and inexplicit, you cannot say it about a modern short version. As it already looks neat and well groomed, you do not need to be bothered with excessive styling, if any.

Super Long Straight Mullet

Super Long Straight Mullet Hairstyle for Men
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

With this extra long mullet haircut men are sure to be the center of attention. It does require quite a lot of effort to grow such long tresses and then to maintain them, but we reassure you it is absolutely worth it. The rest of the head can be trimmed quite short with the sides being shaved to the skin.

Spiky Mullet Haircut

Spiky Male Mullet
Credit photo: Instagram.com/shrunknheads

Mullets are all about texture and definition. The top is usually texturized for a more voluminous and structured look of the cut. It then can be styled in many different ways with ease. To bring a rock feel to the hairstyle, spike up the tips of your hair with the help of a styling product of your choice.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mullet Haircut for Wavy Hair

Mullet Haircut for Wavy Hair
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

With a mullet haircut curly hair, as well as waves, can be taken to another level. Thanks to your hair texture, it is much easier to blend the top into the back despite the striking difference in length. Plus, if you struggle to tame your kinks, a mullet is your sure bet.

Mohawk Mullet

Mohawk Mullet
Credit photo: Instagram.com/shrunknheads

You are welcome to team a mullet haircut with other popular men hair looks. As such, a mohawk mullet haircut makes up an awesome combo. To get the look, you should trim the hair on the sides very short or even shave it off completely. Do not forget to leave enough hair in the back to retain the aesthetic of the mullet.

Shaggy Mullet Haircut

Shaggy Mullet Hairstyle for Men
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

A shag is another retro haircut that reemerged recently and it sometimes feels like it was made to be partnered with a mullet. A shag mullet haircut takes the best features from both haircuts, resulting in a very ample and defined hair look. It is all party and volume in the back with a slightly messy business on the top.

ADVERTISEMENT

Permed Mullet Hairstyle

Permed Mullet Hairstyle
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

If you want to try on a fashionable curly mullet but your natural hair texture is straight, a perm is a surefire way out for you. We can all agree that it is quite a commitment, as it needs to be maintained and taken care of properly. However, this is hardly an obstacle for a fashion savvy guy, right?

Bowl+Mullet

Bowl Haircut with Mullet
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

Not everyone will be able to appreciate this highly fashionable and edgy look. Yet, if you are one of those guys who follow modern trends, then a bowl mullet cut is made for you. While it can be pulled off on any hair texture, guys with straight hair will find it the most flattering.

Mullet with Curtain Bangs

Mullet with Curtain Bangs
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

The curtain bang is a staple of E boys haircuts. By opting for it, you will make girls go crazy about your hairstyle. But can you only imagine what impact it is going to make if you team a curtain bang with a mullet? We neither. So, let's better find it out, shall we?

ADVERTISEMENT

Undercut Mullet Haircut with Dyed Bangs

Undercut Mullet with Dyed Bangs
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

For those who like to experiment with their haircut mullet undercut may not be edgy enough anymore. That is why you may want to upgrade it with unusual coloring. It does not mean that you need to change your hair color completely. Just add highlights or better yet, add a colorful accent to the bangs.

80s mullet style with Curly Hair

80s mullet style with Curly Hair
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

If you curly hair but prefer a more authentic look of the hairstyle, feel free to get the 80s mullet haircut. For added definition, rub a tad of a hair pomade between your palms and work it into your curls. Amplify the look with a retro outfit and some old school accessories.

Mullet for Straight Hair

Mullet for Straight Hair
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

To make the most out of the muller cut for straight hair, you need to get a textured cut on the top and back. This will give your locks structure and some dimension. For more contrast, complement the cut with a fade on the sides. As a result, you will get a very pronounced straight mullet fade haircut.

ADVERTISEMENT

Shaggy Mullet Haircut for Curly Hair

Shaggy Mullet for Curly Hair
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

Guys with curly locks should not sacrifice their hair texture for the sake of a mullet. They should instead embrace it and put the curls on display. And a shaggy mullet is aimed at helping you achieve this. For more emphasis, apply a texturizing mousse and style your curly tresses with a diffuser attachment.

How Do You Style Mullet Haircut?

How Do You Style Mullet Haircut?
Credit photo: Instagram.com/coiffeurstory

Even though modern mullets are shorter than their predecessors, they can nevertheless be styled. It is up to you to decide how to do it. Yet, here is what we recommend:

  1. Style the mullet to the side by combing or brushing the top.
  2. Push the strands upward and slightly to the side.
  3. Sleek the hair back using a gel or another strong hold product with a glossy finish.
  4. Spike up the strands on top for a bit of the 90s flair.

As for the hair in the back, it also has several styling options, such as a ponytail, a bun or simply loose locks.

Now that you know all this information, you should be able to nail a mullet haircut like a pro. As you see, it does not take much effort or time to make it flatter your hair texture or face shape. It is just important to pick out the most suitable mullet hairstyle for your preferences and needs.

FAQ: Mullet Haircut

Are mullets in style 2024?

Mullets are sure back in fashion for 2024. Obviously, this is not the same hairstyle it used to be back in the day. Now, it is more textured with colorful accents and elaborate styling.

Why is the haircut called a mullet?

As for the origins of the mullet haircut name, there are many versions. The most common one is attributed to the song ‘Mullet Head’ by the Beastie Boys. The band leader Mike D invented this phrase in 1994 to describe the haircut itself and the people wearing it.

What is a mullet haircut?

A mullet is a haircut that has short sides and a short top as well as a longer back.

What is the modern mullet called?

Because a modern variation of the muller cut is shorter and softer, it is often called a shullet, which stands for a short muller. Another meaning of the shullet is a play on the words “mullet” and “shag”, which is also a popular combo.

ADVERTISEMENT