The Modern Mullet: A Guide to This Season's Hottest Haircut

The modern mullet is defined by shorter hair at the front and sides with longer length at the back. This silhouette rose to fame in the 70s and 80s, worn by icons like David Bowie and Billy Ray Cyrus.

Today, the mullet evolved into a versatile, wearable look that suits many lifestyles. Barbers use tapers, fades, and textured layers to create a cleaner shape that still shows personality.

Whether you want a subtle office-friendly cut or a bold weekend style, this mullet haircut can be tailored. It works on thick, fine, wavy, straight, and curly hair with small adjustments.

Ahead, we’ll list the top variations, share how to ask your barber, and offer quick styling routines. By the end, you’ll know which version fits your vibe and how to keep it low-maintenance or editorial.

Key Takeaways

The look pairs short front and sides with length at the back for contrast.
Barbers blend tapers and fades to modernize the classic mullet.
It suits many hair types and lifestyle needs.
Styling can be quick for daily wear or more detailed for events.
By reading on, men will learn how to choose and request the right cut.

Why the modern mullet is trending right now

The haircut has shifted from loud contrast to subtle structure, blending vintage attitude with neat detailing. What was once a brash, high-contrast classic mullet now favors seamless blending along the sides and softer transitions at the crown.

Pandemic hair choices pushed experimentation: longer backs and willingness to try new shapes made the look socially acceptable again. Barbers now prefer tapered or faded sides with textured, short-to-medium lengths up top for a cleaner finish.

For many men this style offers identity and edge while staying office-appropriate. A restrained fringe and tidy sides keep the front presentable, while controlled length at the back adds personality.

Technically, gentle fade work and scissor-over-comb shaping mean the cut grows out well. For straight hair, subtle layering and the right product create movement so the silhouette doesn’t lie flat.

This trend is about customization, not rules. You can pick shorter hair up front or a longer back and still get a wearable look. Learn specific variations next in our mullet haircut guide.

From retro rebel to refined: what’s changed since the 80s

Barbers replaced stark contrasts with softer tapers, strategic texture, and light fringe. That update makes the cut easier to style with modern wardrobes.

Present-day appeal in the United States: versatility for all hair types

The look works across hair types—straight, wavy, or curly—and fits lifestyles from low-maintenance to high-style nights out. Gentle fades and tailored lengths let men personalize the vibe without looking unkempt.

Best modern mullet options to try

Explore practical options that match your lifestyle and shape. Below are popular takes your barber can craft with clean fades, textured top work, and clear lines at the sides.

Modern mullet with tapered sides and textured top

Ask for softly tapered sides and scissor texturing at the hair top so the top back flows without heaviness.

Mullet taper fade and skin fade variations

Choose a low or mid taper fade for subtlety, or a skin fade to boost contrast. Lower fades read conservative; higher fades read bolder.

Short mullet for low-maintenance mornings

Keep the sides tight and fringe tidy. This short mullet air-dries fast and still looks intentional for men on the go.

Long mullet for flow and drama

Add layered movement through the hair back and top back. Pair with a subtle taper fade or an all-in skin fade depending on the statement you want.

Curly mullet and permed mullet

Enhance natural curls with shaping and moisture, or choose a permed mullet to create defined ringlets that frame the face.

Mullet fade with heavy fringe

Balance a weighty fringe with closely faded sides so the eyes and hair top stay the focal point.

How to pick the right cut for your hair type and face shape

Picking the right cut starts with knowing how your hair behaves and which face shapes it flatters. Barbers often recommend textured short-to-medium hair that flows into the neck for a versatile silhouette. Decide how much maintenance you want before choosing length and taper.

Thick, fine, and coarse hair: practical guidance

Thick hair thrives with debulking and interior layers so the shape sits close at the sides while keeping crown fullness and controlled length at the back.

Fine hair benefits from light layering, a modest fringe, and product to build body. Keep the back measured so weight doesn’t pull the style down.

Coarse hair responds to softening techniques and moisture-first styling. Ask for polished edges and a taper that reins in the outline without fighting texture.

Straight, wavy, and natural curls: match texture to the cut

For straight hair, consider a permed mullet or textured cutting to add movement. A subtle taper prevents a boxy finish.

Wavy and natural curls pair well with a curly mullet that honors bounce. Keep sides tidy and hydrate to keep shape.

Balancing fringe and sides for your face shape

Square faces: soften angles with a slightly longer fringe and rounder side corners.
Round faces: add height at the crown and choose a lighter fringe to lengthen the profile.
Heart/diamond faces: adjust fringe width to balance forehead and cheekbones; keep back length proportional.

Tip: Choose low or mid tapers to gently elongate the profile, or higher tapers for a sharper side contour. If you want examples to show your barber, see this mullet haircut guide.

Styling the modern mullet: products, tools, and routines

Start with a clear plan: prep, texture, dry, and finish for a long-lasting result. These steps help you keep shape at the hair top and movement at the back without fuss.

Prep: Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to plump strands so the hair top keeps lift. This prevents the back from going limp by midday.

Add grit: On towel-damp hair, mist sea salt spray and scrunch or twist sections for natural texture. Let the product settle before you dry.

Dry smart

Use a blow dryer with a diffuser on low heat and speed to enhance waves or curls. Flip your head and dry from underneath to boost crown volume without frizz.

Finish and control

Choose clay for matte separation, matte pomade for choppy definition, or texturizing powder to inflate roots and absorb oil. Keep the fringe light; too much product will weigh it down.

If you have a taper fade or skin fade, brush the faded sides down while directing the fringe forward or up to keep contrasts clean.
For a quiff mullet, pre-dry the front for lift, lock height with light clay, and tidy edges with a touch of pomade.
Short on time? Dust roots with powder, add a dab of cream through the back, and go.

Quick tip: Refresh second-day hair with a water mist and a dash of sea salt spray, then diffuse briefly to revive texture. For examples to show your barber, check this high-fade mullet reference.

Barbershop guidance and maintenance for lasting shape

Knowing how bold you want the fade and how long you want the back helps your barber deliver a consistent shape. Start the consult by naming the fade type and where you want it placed.

Consultation cues:

Clarify if you want a mullet taper or a skin fade. A taper fade grows in softer; a skin fade gives stronger contrast.
Pick placement: low reads subtle, mid is balanced, and high ramps up boldness. Match the choice to work and social needs.
Decide on a short fringe or longer top back. Short fringe is lower-maintenance; a longer top back gives more styling options.

Touch-up timeline and upkeep

Most barbers recommend trims every two to three weeks to keep the fade crisp and the back controlled. Stretch to four to six weeks if you prefer a softer, lived-in look.

Extra tips:

Ask for smooth graduation between sides and back so the shape holds as it grows.
Consider burst or temp fades for clean temple arcs without losing back length.
For a stronger center strip, try a mohawk or faux hawk variant with tight sides and longer hair back.
Bring photos and specific lengths for quicker, accurate results and a repeatable home routine.

For a visual reference on how to ask for a specific fade, see this mullet taper fade.

Conclusion

Lock in a version that fits your schedule and the image you want to project. The modern mullet offers options from a short mullet with clean lines to a long mullet with flowing back hair that still reads intentional.

If you prefer bold structure, try a faux hawk or mohawk mullet to add height and contrast. For daily wear, a mullet taper with subtle blending keeps the sides neat and the back hair head growing in gracefully.

Keep styling simple: volumizing wash, sea salt for texture, diffuse for volume, and finish with clay, matte pomade, or powder. Book trims every two to three weeks to maintain the fade and keep the hair back tidy.

Final tip: Explore different types of mullet and show pics at your appointment. With the right barber and a short routine, men can shape fringe, sides, and top back to land the exact look they want.

FAQ

What is the modern mullet and how does it differ from the 1980s version?

The modern mullet blends short, tapered sides with longer hair at the back and a styled top. Unlike the 1980s cut, today’s version uses textured layers, fades, and styling products to look polished rather than raw. It’s about shape and movement rather than a single dramatic silhouette.

Which fade options work best with this haircut?

Taper fades, skin fades, burst fades, and temple fades all pair well. A taper fade keeps a gradual transition; a skin fade gives a sharper contrast. Burst and temple fades add circular or localized detail. Choose based on how bold you want the sides to read against the longer back.

Can people with curly or permed hair pull off this style?

Absolutely. Curly and permed textures add natural volume and bounce. Ask your barber to preserve length at the back and add layered texturing up top. Use a diffuser and a curl-enhancing cream or light mousse to define shape without weighing hair down.

What about fine or thin hair—will this cut work?

Yes. For fine hair, keep more length on top to create lift and use texturizing powder or clay for density. A subtle taper fade avoids overly exposed sides. Strategic layering gives the illusion of thickness while keeping styling simple.

How often should I visit the barber to maintain the shape?

For clean fades and a tidy top-back silhouette, schedule touch-ups every 3–6 weeks. If you prefer a looser, growing-in look, you can stretch visits to 8 weeks, but fades will lose definition sooner.

What styling products and tools are recommended?

Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, sea salt spray for texture, and a blow dryer (with diffuser for curls) to set volume. Finish with matte clay, pomade, or texturizing powder for hold and separation. Choose lightweight products if you have natural curls to avoid stiffness.

How do I choose the right fringe and top length for my face shape?

Round faces benefit from added height up front (quiff or faux hawk influence). Square faces can wear short, choppy fringe or spiky tops. Oval faces suit most variations. Ask your barber to adjust fringe length and side taper to balance proportions.

Is a short version suitable for low-maintenance routines?

Yes. A shorter cut keeps styling time to a minimum—wash, quick towel-dry, and a swipe of clay or matte paste. It’s ideal for busy mornings while retaining the signature back length feel in a compact form.

Can I get an office-appropriate or more refined take on this haircut?

Definitely. A classy, refined version uses softer transitions, minimal texture, and a subtle taper. Keep the top neatly styled and avoid extreme contrast between sides and back for a polished, workplace-friendly look.

Which variations create the most edgy silhouette?

Mohawk-inspired and faux hawk versions, spiky tops, and strong skin fades produce an edgier profile. Adding sharp layers or a pronounced quiff lifts the front and emphasizes contrast with the longer back.

How do I explain the cut to my barber—what terms help?

Use clear terms: ask for tapered sides or a skin fade, specify length at the top and back (in inches or clipper guard numbers), mention short or choppy fringe, and request texturizing layers. Bring photos of a quiff mullet, shaggy mullet, or two-block variation to illustrate your goal.

Will a blow dryer damage hair if I use it daily?

Not if you use heat protection and the right setting. Blow dry on low to medium heat, use a diffuser for curls, and apply a thermal protectant. Overuse at high heat can cause dryness, so keep sessions brief and use nourishing products regularly.

Which hair types struggle with this style and how can I adapt it?

Extremely fine, limp hair can lack body; add layers and volumizing products. Very coarse hair may need thinning and heavier texturizing so it lays properly. Consult a skilled barber to balance length and weight for your specific texture.

Are there popular celebrity references or barbers I can show for inspiration?

Yes—many contemporary actors and musicians have sported tailored variations. Bring crisp reference photos showing the exact fade, fringe, and length you want to your barber to ensure a faithful result.