The Mullet Haircut: 25 Modern Styles for Attractive Look

The Mullet Haircut is a timeless style that blends short hair in the front and sides with longer length at the back, creating a bold yet versatile look. Once iconic in the ’80s, it has made a massive comeback with modern twists think fades, curls, textured layers, and even edgy two-block cuts. Today’s mullet can be tailored to suit different face shapes, personalities, and lifestyles, making it both authentic and stylish.

In this article, you’ll discover 25 modern mullet styles, learn how to pick the right one for you, and get tips on making the cut truly your own.

Trending Types of Mullet Hairstyles

The modern mullet revolution isn’t just about length anymore. It’s about precision, texture, and knowing your barber’s skill level.

Celebrity influence drives much of today’s mullet popularity. Think less “truck driver from 1987” and more “indie musician who actually showers.”

Contemporary mullet styles focus on clean lines and intentional shape. The wild, untamed look has given way to structured rebellion that works in professional settings.

Regional preferences vary across the USA. West Coast guys lean toward longer, flowing styles. East Coast men prefer shorter, more refined approaches.

Length & Classic Styles

Short Mullet 

A short mullet is a no-fuss, no-drama haircut that keeps mornings simple but still screams personality. The trimmed top, light fringe, and tidy back make it easy to maintain while giving off a playful edge.

In this example pic, the sides are neatly faded, blending into the cropped back for a smooth, modern finish. Add a bit of product for texture, and you’ve got a haircut that’s casual, stylish, and perfect for guys who want chill vibes with a hint of attitude.

Medium Mullet

The medium mullet offers the perfect compromise between subtle and dramatic, providing noticeable contrast without extreme length differences. This goldilocks mullet works for guys wanting mullet appeal with practical wear ability.

Medium length offers styling versatility slick it back for professional looks or tousle for casual appeal. The moderate proportions make it easier to grow out gracefully if you decide to change styles later.

Long Mullet 

A long mullet makes a bold statement with extended length that flows past the shoulders, creating maximum drama and visual impact. This lengthy mullet requires serious commitment to daily styling and regular maintenance to prevent the dreaded triangle shape that plagues poorly executed cuts.

The styling routine involves leave-in conditioners, texturizing sprays, and careful blow-drying to maintain shape and prevent frizz. Communicate with your barber about layer placement and face-framing techniques that complement your facial structure while achieving that flowing, rock-star aesthetic.

Classy Mullet 

A classy mullet elevates the traditional cut through refined proportions and polished finishing techniques that make it appropriate for upscale environments. This sophisticated approach maintains the mullet’s character while adding elegant polish.

Request subtle length variations and precise blending that creates interest without drama. The goal is achieving rebellion that whispers rather than shouts, perfect for professional settings that appreciate subtle edge.

Flowing Mullet 

A flowing mullet is like the classic mullet’s cooler cousin. Instead of being “business in the front and party in the back,” it flips the script. The front hair is long and wavy, while the back is short and neat, making it look like the haircut can’t quite decide what it wants to be.

The best part? It almost looks like the hair is surfing on your head, flowing backward with the breeze. Add some tapered sides, maybe a scruffy beard, and suddenly you’ve got a hairstyle that says, “I’m stylish… but also ready for fun.”

Modern & Styled Mullets

Modern Mullet 

The modern mullet represents today’s sophisticated take on the classic cut, featuring cleaner lines and more refined proportions than its predecessors. This contemporary mullet typically includes subtle layering that creates natural movement without appearing unkempt or overly dramatic.

Ask your barber for graduated length transitions and point-cutting techniques that soften harsh edges. The key lies in balancing the contrast between front and back lengths while maintaining a polished appearance that works in professional settings.

Sexy, Modern Mullet From The Back – The Instagram-Ready Angle

The sexy, modern mullet from the back focuses on creating the perfect rear-view silhouette that’s Instagram-ready and conversation-starting. This approach emphasizes the mullet’s most dramatic angle through strategic layering and shaping.

The back view should create smooth, flowing lines that cascade naturally from the crown. Work with your barber to achieve gradual length transitions that create movement and interest from every angle.

Trendy Short Mullet with Low Taper Fade

This trendy short mullet with a low taper fade combines subtle rebellion with professional polish through modest length variation and gradual side blending. The low taper maintains more length on the sides while still creating definition and contrast.

Perfect for conservative workplaces, this style offers mullet appeal without dramatic proportions. The low fade placement ensures versatility while the shorter overall length reduces styling time and maintenance requirements.

Quiff Mullet Fade 

The quiff mullet fade combines voluminous front styling with the mullet’s flowing back sections through strategic layering and styling techniques. This volume mullet creates height and presence while maintaining the characteristic mullet proportions.

Achieving proper quiff height requires volumizing products and skilled blow-drying techniques. The fade should complement both the quiff’s height and the mullet’s flow, creating seamless integration between contrasting elements.

Shaggy Mullet 

The shaggy mullet is a haircut that looks cool and a little silly at the same time. The front and sides are short, but the back is long and messy. It’s like two haircuts in one.

This style is fun because you don’t need to fix it too much. Just shake your hair and you’re ready to go. It’s kind of like bedhead, but people will think you did it on purpose.

Fluffy Mullet

A fluffy mullet emphasizes soft volume and natural movement through layering techniques that create airiness without weight. This approach works especially well with fine or naturally straight hair that needs help achieving body and texture.

Volumizing products and proper blow-drying techniques are essential for maintaining the fluffy texture. Request layers that create lift and movement while avoiding excessive thinning that could reduce overall density.

Messy Mullet with Texture 

A messy mullet with texture is like a party in the back and a chill hangout in the front. The hair is left a little wild, full of waves and curls that don’t follow the rules kind of like that one kid who always cracks jokes in class. The fringe can tumble forward, brushing close to the eyebrows, giving the style a playful vibe.

The sides usually fade shorter, making the top and back look even cooler. It’s not too neat, not too fancy just perfectly “messy.” If haircuts could talk, this one would say, “I’m cool, but I also love pizza.”

Spiky Mullet

The Spiky Mullet is a trendy hairstyle that combines the classic mullet shape with modern edgy spikes. It features short, layered hair on the front and sides, while the back is left longer for that signature mullet flow. The spiky texture on top adds a bold, playful look, making it popular among those who enjoy experimenting with unique and rebellious styles.

This hairstyle works well with various hair types and can be customized for different lengths and volumes. Often styled with hair gel or wax, the spiky mullet suits casual, punk, and streetwear-inspired fashion. It is a versatile choice for people looking to mix retro vibes with a modern, striking edge.

Curly Mullet 

Curly mullet styles work with your natural texture instead of fighting it. Those coils create amazing volume and movement. This textured mullet approach celebrates what genetics gave you. Proper products enhance your curls without creating that dreaded triangle shape.

Maintenance focuses on moisture and definition. Curly hair needs different care than straight hair, especially in longer styles. Spiral mullet cutting techniques involve working with individual curl patterns. Your barber should understand curly hair physics.

Permed Mullet Taper 

The Permed Mullet Taper is a modern hairstyle that combines the sharpness of a taper fade with the bold shape of a mullet. The sides gradually fade down for a clean, neat look, while the back is kept longer to highlight the mullet style. A perm is added to create curls or waves, giving the hairstyle extra texture and volume.

This look works especially well for people who want a balance of edgy and stylish. The taper keeps it professional and fresh, while the permed mullet section adds character and flair. It’s versatile, easy to maintain with styling products, and can be worn casually or dressed up for a trendier appearance.

Fade & Edgy Variations

Mullet Fade 

The classic mullet fade provides sharp contrast between ultra-short sides and flowing back sections through precise blending techniques. This timeless approach creates clean definition that emphasizes the mullet’s signature proportions while adding contemporary polish.

Fade placement is crucial too high creates imbalance, while too low diminishes the dramatic effect. Work with your barber to determine optimal fade positioning based on your head shape and desired contrast level.

Mullet Taper Fade 

The mullet taper fade combines rebellious length with clean, professional sides through gradual blending that creates smooth transitions. This tapered mix mullet offers the perfect compromise for guys wanting edginess without sacrificing workplace appropriateness.

Your barber should focus on seamless blending from the shortest point at the temples to the longest sections at the nape. The taper creates definition while the fade adds modern polish, resulting in a low maintenance mullet that looks intentional and sophisticated.

Burst Fade Mullet 

The Burst Fade Mullet is a bold hairstyle that blends the classic mullet with a modern burst fade. The fade curves around the ear in a circular pattern, creating a sharp contrast with the longer hair left at the back. The top is usually kept longer and styled in various ways, while the sides stay clean and tapered for a fresh, edgy look.

This haircut is popular for its versatility and striking appearance. It works well with straight, wavy, or curly hair and can be customized with added texture, spikes, or curls. The burst fade mullet is a favorite among trendsetters who want a unique style that mixes retro vibes with contemporary flair.

Temp Fade Mullet

A temp fade mullet features precise fading around the temples while maintaining length through the back and crown areas. This targeted approach creates clean definition around the face while preserving the mullet’s characteristic proportions.

The temple fade adds sharp detail that frames the face while the preserved length maintains the mullet’s rebellious spirit. Request precision blending that creates clean lines without appearing overly harsh or artificial.

Choppy Mullet Taper Fade 

The choppy mullet taper fade combines textured layering with clean side blending to create controlled messiness with sharp definition. This approach balances deliberate chaos with polished precision for maximum visual impact.

The choppy layers should create movement and interest while the taper fade provides clean contrast. Request point-cutting techniques that create texture without reducing overall density or creating thin, wispy sections.

Faded Mullet with Fringe 

The faded mullet with fringe combines flowing back length with face-framing front sections that add versatility and style options. This approach balances the mullet’s drama with practical styling flexibility for different occasions.

The fringe provides styling options – wear it down for casual looks or swept up for professional settings. Coordinate fringe length with the mullet’s proportions to create cohesive overall balance.

Bold & Experimental Looks

Mohawk Mullet – Maximum Edge and Attitude

The Mohawk Mullet is a daring fusion of two iconic styles. It features the tall, spiked strip of hair from the Mohawk, paired with the longer back section of a mullet.

The sides are usually shaved or closely faded, emphasizing the bold top and flowing back. This edgy look is perfect for those wanting a rebellious, standout hairstyle.

Mullet Faux Hawk

The mullet faux hawk combines two iconic rebellious styles into something surprisingly wearable. You get attitude without full mohawk commitment. This hybrid mullet approach works by creating height through the center while maintaining longer back sections. It’s punk rock that plays well with others.

Styling requires strong-hold products and some blow-drying skill. The payoff is a look that commands attention without alienating employers. Hawk mullet variations offer flexibility in how dramatically you style the center section based on your daily needs.

Two Block Mullet 

The two block mullet features distinct length sections that create dramatic contrast between the shorter crown and longer perimeter sections. This K-pop inspired style emphasizes geometric precision while maintaining the mullet’s flowing back characteristic.

The key is achieving clean demarcation lines between the two distinct length zones. Your barber should use precise sectioning and cutting techniques that create sharp definition while maintaining natural hair movement.

Edgy Mullet with Beard

The edgy mullet with beard creates a complete masculine package by coordinating facial hair with the mullet’s rebellious energy. This combination amplifies both elements while creating cohesive overall styling that’s undeniably bold.

Coordinate beard length and style with the mullet’s proportions to avoid competing elements. Both require regular maintenance and quality grooming products to maintain their sharp, intentional appearance.

How To Style A Mullet – Your Complete Daily Routine

Styling a mullet doesn’t have to eat up your morning. With the right routine, you can keep it looking sharp all day without stress. Here’s a step-by-step daily plan to keep your mullet on point:

1. Morning Wash & Prep

• Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to give your mullet bounce.
• If you’ve got a curly mullet, go for moisture-rich products to fight frizz.
• Pat dry with a towel—don’t rub, it kills natural flow.

2. Add Texture & Volume

• Spray on sea salt spray for that natural, lived-in vibe.
• For a shaggy mullet or messy mullet with texture, scrunch the hair while it’s damp.
• Blow-dry with a diffuser if you’ve got curls or waves.

3. Lock in the Shape

• Use styling clay or matte pomade for hold without shine.
• Want extra lift in the front? Go for a quiff mullet fade look with texturizing powder.
• Keep sides neat if you’re rocking a mullet taper fade or burst fade mullet.

4. Midday Touch-Up

• Carry a small travel-size wax or powder for quick fixes.
• Run damp fingers through the back to refresh volume.
• For spiky mullets, pinch the ends back into shape.

5. Night Reset

• Comb out product gently.
• Rinse with water if needed, so hair doesn’t feel heavy the next day.
• Apply light leave-in conditioner for smoother flow tomorrow.

👉 With this routine, your mullet stays bold, clean, and stylish from morning coffee to late-night hangouts.

Maintenance and Care Tips for Long-Lasting Mullet Styles

A mullet looks sharp on day one, but keeping it fresh is where the real game begins. With the right care, your modern mullet, curly mullet, or even mullet taper fade can stay crisp for weeks. Here’s how to make your mullet last longer without endless salon trips.

1. Regular Trims

• Visit your barber every 3–4 weeks to keep the back length balanced with the sides.
• A quick taper or fade refresh makes a mullet hairstyle for men look brand new.
• Don’t let split ends kill the vibe—snip them before they spread.

2. Wash Smart

• Use shampoo 2–3 times a week; daily washing strips natural oils.
• Conditioner is your mullet’s best friend, especially if you rock a long mullet or flowing mullet.
• Dry with a towel pat—avoid heat blasting every day to protect texture.

3. Style Sustainably

• Rotate products: clay for workdays, sea salt spray for casual, pomade for nights out.
• Avoid product buildup; use a clarifying shampoo once a month.
• Keep it natural—sometimes a shaggy mullet looks better with minimal effort.

4. Protect Your Hair

• Wear a cap or use UV-protection spray if you’re outdoors often.
• If you’ve got a permed mullet taper or colored style, invest in sulfate-free products.
• Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz and breakage, especially for curly mullets.

A mullet isn’t just a haircut—it’s a lifestyle. A few smart habits make sure your style stays sharp, voluminous, and camera-ready every single day.

Choosing the Right Mullet for Your Face Shape and Lifestyle

Not every mullet works for every guy. The secret is matching the cut to your face shape and the life you actually live. Pick the wrong one, and it feels awkward. Pick the right one, and it’s all confidence.

Mullet for Face Shape

• Oval Face: Lucky you—almost every mullet hairstyle for men works here. Try a modern mullet or mullet taper fade for balance.
• Square Face: Go with softer edges like a shaggy mullet or curly mullet to avoid looking too rigid.
• Round Face: Add height on top with a quiff mullet fade or spiky mullet to stretch out the shape.
• Heart Face: Keep more flow in the back with a long mullet or flowing mullet to balance a narrower chin.

Mullet for Lifestyle

• Professional Setting: Stick with a short mullet or classy mullet—neat, easy, still stylish.
• Active & Sporty: A burst fade mullet or mullet taper fade gives edge but stays low-maintenance.
• Creative & Bold: Push limits with a mohawk mullet, mullet faux hawk, or two block mullet.
• Laid-back Style: A shaggy mullet or messy mullet with texture fits an easygoing vibe without much effort.

Bottom line: the mullet you choose should work with your bone structure and your lifestyle. It’s not just hair—it’s part of how you show up every day.

Wrapping Up

The mullet haircut has transformed from an ’80s icon into a versatile, modern trend. Today’s versions feature fades, curls, texture, and clean lines tailored to face shapes and lifestyles. From short and classy to bold mohawk or burst fade mullets, this style balances rebellion with polish. With proper care and styling, the mullet remains authentic, stylish, and timeless.