The mullet is back and this time it is not a joke. From barbershops in Sydney to street style in Seoul, the mullet hairstyles for men has become one of the most-requested cuts of the decade.
The modern mullet ditches the dated, scraggly version of the 80s and replaces it with clean fades, textured layers, and sharp silhouettes that work across face shapes and hair types.
Whether you want a subtle low taper that barely reads as a mullet or a full shaggy curtain fringe with a skin fade, there is a variation that suits your look.
In this guide, you will find 28 mullet hairstyle ideas for men, covering every type from short and clean to long and wild plus a step-by-step how-to-style section, face shape guide, and exact barber instructions.
Mullet Hairstyle Quick Comparison
| Style | Hair Type | Maintenance | Best For |
| Modern Mullet | All types | Low | Everyday versatility |
| Long Mullet | Straight / Wavy | Medium | Drama and length |
| Curly Mullet | Curly / Coily | Medium | Natural curl showcase |
| Burst Fade Mullet | All types | Low | Sculptured, clean look |
| Shaggy Mullet | Fine / Wavy | Low | Retro rockstar vibes |
| Short Mullet | All types | Low | Low-commitment entry |
| Permed Mullet | Straight | Medium-High | Volume without heat |
| Wolf Cut Mullet | Wavy / Thick | Low-Medium | Trending 2026 pick |
| Skin Fade Mullet | All types | Low-Medium | Maximum contrast |
| Disconnected Mullet | Straight / Sleek | Medium | High-fashion editorial |
28 Best Mullet Hairstyles for Men
1. Modern Mullet
The modern mullet is the most popular version in barbershops right now.
It keeps the classic short-sides, longer-back structure but strips away everything that felt cheesy about the original.
The top is left textured and slightly longer, the sides taper cleanly, and the back falls just past the collar rather than trailing down the neck.
It is easy to personalize with a fade, added texture, or color making it the most versatile mullet on this list.
Best For: Almost every face shape; ideal for men who want the mullet look without going too bold.
How to Style: Apply a small amount of matte clay to dry hair. Use fingers to push the top back slightly, then let the back fall naturally. Finish with a light hold spray.
2. Long Mullet
The long mullet is for men who commit fully.
The back extends well past the collar sometimes to shoulder length while the top and sides stay trimmed.
Layering at the back prevents the length from looking flat, and a burst or skin fade on the sides creates the contrast that makes the length read as intentional rather than neglected.
Highlights and hair coloring amplify the style further.
Best For: Oval and oblong face shapes; men with thick, straight or wavy hair.
How to Style: Use a sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch from the back upward. Let air dry or use a diffuser. Avoid heavy hold products that weigh down the length.
3. Mullet Taper Fade
A taper fade softens the sides gradually rather than cutting sharply down to skin.
The result is a mullet that looks polished and clean, a great entry point for professional environments.
Ask your barber for a low, mid, or high taper depending on how much contrast you want.
Low tapers are almost invisible while high tapers create more drama.
In most versions, a brushed-up fringe adds whimsy while the back falls cleanly.
Best For: All hair types; professional settings; men trying a mullet for the first time.
How to Style: Blow dry the top forward and then push back for volume. A small amount of pomade on the fringe adds definition.
4. Mohawk Mullet
The mohawk mullet merges two bold silhouettes into one unapologetically loud haircut.
A thick central strip of hair runs from the forehead to the nape while the sides are buzzed or faded close.
The back retains length longer than a traditional mohawk and often features some texture or wave.
An undercut buzz connected to a short beard breathes new life into the cut, adding balance and rugged masculinity.
Best For: Diamond and oval face shapes; men with a fashion-forward personal style.
How to Style: Apply styling gel or strong clay to the central strip and push upward. Use fingers to separate and define. A light mist of hairspray holds the shape throughout the day.
5. Short Mullet
The short mullet is the most wearable version of the cut.
The back does not extend more than an inch or two past the sides, keeping the overall shape contained and easy to manage.
It reads as unconventional but never outrageous.
A thick fringe and short, loose curls flow into a low skin fade at the sides, gradually blending into cropped hair at the back.
Worn with a groomed beard, this cut delivers instant character.
Best For: Round and square face shapes; any hair type; workplace-appropriate.
How to Style: Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow dry upward. Finish with matte clay on the top for texture.
6. Burst Fade Mullet
The burst fade radiates outward from behind the ear in a semi-circle, creating a halo effect that is more sculptured and artistic than a standard taper.
Paired with a mullet, the burst fade adds shape and contrast while keeping the back length intact.
It is one of the cleanest-looking mullet variations and works especially well on men with thicker hair.
The razor starts at the ear and moves outward in a circle, gradually blending into the rest of the hair.
Best For: All hair types; oval and heart face shapes; men who want visual interest without extreme length.
How to Style: The fade itself does most of the visual work. Keep the top loose and textured with a medium-hold clay.
7. Curly Mullet
Curly hair and the mullet are a natural match.
The curls at the top and back create instant volume and texture without any product, and the length in the back allows the curls to spring outward and downward for a bold, dimensional look.
A razor fade at the sides gives structure without fighting the natural curl pattern.
A blended beard balances the overall aesthetic and keeps the look polished rather than wild.
Best For: Curly and coily hair types; oval and oblong face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a curl-defining cream or mousse to wet hair. Scrunch and let air dry, or use a diffuser on low heat. Avoid brushing once dry to prevent frizz.
8. Mullet Fade
The mullet fade cranks up the contrast by fading the sides down to skin.
The result is sharp, clean, and modern; the heavy fringe and longer back sit in stark contrast to the almost-bare sides.
This is a high-impact version that suits men who want their haircut to make a statement.
It typically transitions sharply into the skin, offering visual appeal that emphasizes the textured top.
Best For: Oval face shapes; dark, thick hair for maximum contrast.
How to Style: Blow dry the top slightly forward, then push back for a lifted effect. Matte pomade on the fringe adds polish.
9. Shaggy Mullet
The shaggy mullet leans into the rockstar aesthetic with choppy, uneven layers and plenty of lived-in texture.
The sides are shorter but not faded; they blend into the back through layered cutting rather than clippers.
This is a low-maintenance style that actually looks better the less you do to it.
A long, rebellious fringe mimics the windblown effect at the nape for a balanced look that suits the audacious rockstar mentality.
Best For: Fine and medium-thickness hair; heart and oval face shapes; effortless style.
How to Style: Scrunch a sea salt spray into damp hair and let air dry. Run fingers through to separate layers. No additional products needed.
10. Two-Block Mullet
The two-block cut popularized in Korean barbershops meets the mullet in this hybrid style.
The top section forms one clean block of longer hair while the sides are undercut or clipper-cut very short to form a contrasting block.
The back is left longer than a standard two-block, bridging the gap between Korean and Western cutting styles.
The cut is versatile and lends itself to bold colors and wild textures.
Best For: Straight or wavy hair; oval and oblong face shapes; men who love Korean hair trends.
How to Style: Blow dry the top flat and forward for a sleek finish. Alternatively, push it back and add texture with a light clay for a more casual look.
11. Short Mullet with Low Taper Fade
This is the refined, everyday version of the short mullet.
A low taper fade hugs the sides and back, disappearing almost entirely near the ear.
The top features a spiky brush-up while the back extends just past the collar.
Worn with a short beard, this cut strikes a balance between sharp and relaxed that works in nearly any setting.
It is one of the most barbershop-requested mullet variations for office workers.
Best For: Square and oval face shapes; men who want a neat, well-barbered look.
How to Style: Use a round brush while blow drying the top upward and back. Finish with a medium-hold matte clay for subtle texture.
12. Mullet Faux Hawk
The faux hawk adds vertical height to the mullet’s horizontal drama.
A ridge of hair along the center of the head is styled upward while the sides are faded down close.
The back retains the mullet’s signature length, giving the cut a three-dimensional shape that reads bold from every angle.
An edge-up at the temples and hairline sharpens the overall look and adds a refined yet audacious vibe.
Best For: Narrow face shapes like oblong and oval.
How to Style: Apply strong-hold clay to the center strip and push upward. Use a fine-tooth comb to define the ridge, then mist with hairspray to hold the height.
13. Temp Fade Mullet
The temple fade runs along the hairline at the temples, creating a precise, clean line that frames the face neatly.
Combined with the mullet, it adds a polished, well-groomed quality that makes the cut office-friendly.
Well-defined curls benefit especially from the temple fade, as the clean line contrasts beautifully with the natural texture on top.
A short, stubbly beard adds a touch of rugged masculinity without overwhelming the look.
Best For: Oval and diamond face shapes; curly and wavy hair types.
How to Style: Apply a curl cream or defining gel to damp hair. Allow to dry naturally or use a diffuser. Edge up the hairline after styling for a sharp finish.
14. Faded Mullet with Fringe
A side-swept fringe is one of the most flattering additions to a mullet, particularly for men with finer, straighter hair.
The fringe softens the forehead while the fade creates contrast on the sides.
The back is kept shorter than a long mullet but still longer than the fringe, creating a subtle but clear front-to-back gradient.
A simple goatee pulls the entire look together and adds maturity.
Best For: Fine, straight hair; heart and oval face shapes.
How to Style: Blow dry the fringe to one side using a round brush. Apply a light-hold pomade along the fringe to keep it swept. Let the back air dry naturally.
15. Fluffy Mullet
The fluffy mullet prioritizes volume and lift above everything else.
The hair on top is left full and slightly chaotic, forming soft spikes that rise above the head.
A high razor fade strips the sides to create maximum contrast, making the fluffy top look even bigger.
The hair along the center of the head is the longest, and it gradually gets shorter along the sides. A mid-length fringe balances the length at the nape.
Best For: Thick, coarse hair; oval and square face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow dry upward with a round brush. Finish with a texturizing powder on the roots for extra lift.
16. Modern Mullet from the Back
Most mullet guides show only the front, but the back view is what makes or breaks the cut.
A clean modern mullet from behind shows a gradual length increase from the sides toward the center of the nape.
The hair at the crown sits longest, tapering down smoothly. Styling gel or cream achieves the wet look that references the greaser styles of the 1950s, a classic finish that turns heads when you walk away.
Best For: Straight hair that holds a combed shape; men who want a retro-inspired finish.
How to Style: Apply a medium-hold styling cream to damp hair. Comb through from the crown downward, then style the front as desired.
17. Messy Mullet with Texture
Thick waves and natural curls are the foundation of the messy mullet.
A wavy fringe falls toward the brow, the sides taper at a mid-level, and the back follows the natural wave pattern rather than being straightened or defined.
The overall effect is effortlessly cool, the kind of haircut that looks like you have great hair rather than a great haircut.
It takes minimal effort and rewards men who have naturally textured hair.
Best For: Wavy and curly hair types; oval and oblong face shapes.
How to Style: Scrunch a sea salt spray into damp hair and let air dry. Use fingers to push the fringe to one side. No additional styling needed.
18. Edgy Mullet with Beard
A full beard transforms the mullet from a haircut into a complete look.
The beard grounds the longer back and adds symmetry to the silhouette, while wild, spiky texture on top creates contrast with the groomed facial hair.
A high taper on the sides lets the beard connect naturally without an abrupt transition.
The short fringe that curls slightly upward matches the overall untamed vibe.
Best For: Men with full beard growth; square and diamond face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a strong-hold clay to the top and use fingers to push hair in different directions for a spiky effect. Keep the beard trimmed and lined up for maximum contrast.
19. Classy Mullet
The classy mullet proves this haircut belongs in every setting.
Soft, flowing curls replace the usual choppy texture, and a subtle taper rather than a hard fade keeps the transition between lengths refined.
This version photographs extremely well and suits professional environments where a bolder mullet might stand out too much.
It starts with thick flowing curls stretching from hairline to nape, with a toned-down taper fade that blends beautifully into a full beard.
Best For: Curly hair with natural flow; oval and heart face shapes; professional settings.
How to Style: Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and let air dry with minimal manipulation. Avoid touching while drying to prevent frizz.
20. Quiff Mullet Fade
The quiff sweeps the hair at the forehead upward and back, adding height and volume to the front of the mullet.
Combined with a fade at the sides and a gradual length increase toward the back, the quiff mullet is a sculptured, layered style that has a lot going on without feeling overwhelming.
The hair in front flows upward and back rather than falling forward over the forehead, blending into thick waves that get shorter at the back.
Worn with a blended beard, it exudes confidence and style.
Best For: Thick, wavy hair; oval and oblong face shapes.
How to Style: Blow dry the front section upward and back with a round brush. Apply a medium-hold matte pomade, working from the roots outward. Use fingers to refine the shape.
21. Permed Mullet Taper
A perm on a mullet is one of the smartest combinations in modern men’s hair.
The perm adds structured curls and volume throughout, giving the mullet more body and visual interest without relying on daily styling.
A low taper at the sides keeps it looking intentional, and a short patchy beard softens the overall silhouette.
The cut requires expert layering and cutting skills, particularly at the fringe and nape.
Best For: Men with straight hair seeking volume and texture; oval face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a curl-activating cream after washing. Scrunch and diffuse or air dry. Refresh with a light curl spray between washes.
22. Medium Mullet
The medium mullet sits between the short and long extremes the back reaches to the collar or just past it, the sides taper or fade, and the top features feathery, side-swept layers that frame the face without a heavy fringe.
It is the most balanced and universally flattering version of the cut.
The modern, feathery approach allows men to embrace their individuality and confidence without being too over the top.
Best For: All face shapes; all hair types; men wanting a versatile everyday style.
How to Style: Blow dry with a paddle brush to smooth layers. Apply a light hold serum for shine or a matte clay for texture depending on your preference.
23. Spiky Mullet
A spiky mullet requires more product than most other variations, but the result is an original, standout style.
The hair on top is separated into defined spikes that point upward and forward, while the back falls naturally into the mullet’s signature length.
The shorter hair at the sides provides stark contrast, adding a visual lift.
A stubbly goatee adds a touch of maturity that works well with the messy, medium-length look.
Best For: Thick or medium hair; oval and square face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a strong-hold gel or wax to slightly damp hair on the top. Use fingers to separate and spike individual sections. Let dry completely before touching. Mist with hairspray to hold.
24. Choppy Mullet Taper Fade
Choppy cutting uses point-cutting techniques to create irregular, textured ends rather than blunt lines.
A choppy mullet taper fade pairs this method with a taper or fade on the sides for a look that has both structure and movement.
A thick, shaggy fringe matches the length along the sides, and an angular undercut that turns the sideburns into a V-shape mimics the texture of the cut.
The result is neat and visually interesting thanks to the thick texture at the back.
Best For: Medium-thick hair; oval and diamond face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a texture paste to dry hair. Use fingers to rough up the layers in different directions. Finish with a light hairspray for a day-long hold.
25. Flowing Mullet
The flowing mullet inverts the traditional structure slightly; the front is longer and flows back toward the crown rather than falling forward as a fringe.
The sides taper and the back transitions cleanly into the flowing top.
The result is a more seamless, continuous look rather than the stark front-to-back contrast of the classic style.
Tapered sides, a patchy short beard, and a single lock flowing over the forehead give the cut undeniable appeal.
Best For: Straight or slightly wavy hair; oblong and oval face shapes.
How to Style: Use a styling cream and comb to direct the front section back and over the crown. The back should fall naturally. Finish with a light hold spray.
26. Wolf Cut Mullet
The wolf cut is one of the biggest hair trends of the 2020s, borrowing from the shaggy rock styles of the 70s with curtain bangs, heavy layers, and a wild, voluminous finish.
When merged with the mullet structure, the wolf cut adds even more length and drama at the back, while the curtain bangs split at the center and fall to either side of the forehead.
This hybrid style is especially popular among younger men and anyone with a bold personal aesthetic.
It is the most-requested new mullet variation in 2026.
Best For: Wavy and curly hair with natural volume; oval and heart face shapes.
How to Style: Apply a sea salt spray or mousse to damp hair. Scrunch from the back forward to activate the wave. Let air dry and finish with a light curl cream to separate the curtain bangs. Avoid blow drying unless using a diffuser.
27. Skin Fade Mullet
The skin fade mullet takes the contrast between short sides and longer back to its absolute maximum.
The sides are faded all the way down to bare skin as a low, mid, or high fade and the back retains full mullet length.
The result is a dramatic, high-definition style where the fade does most of the visual work.
A line-up at the hairline completes the look and ensures it stays fresh straight out of the chair.
This is the boldest, most barbered version of the modern mullet.
Best For: All hair types; oval, square, and diamond face shapes; men who want a bold, barbered finish.
How to Style: Keep the top loose and slightly textured with a medium-hold matte clay. The fade draws attention on its own; the top does not need to be overly styled.
28. Disconnected Mullet
The disconnected mullet is the most avant-garde version on this list.
Rather than blending the sides into the top and back, the hair at the sides is cut sharply and separately creating a visible, hard division between the shorter side sections and the longer top and back.
There is no fade or taper; the change in length is abrupt and intentional.
This style is favored in editorial and high-fashion contexts and requires a skilled barber to execute cleanly.
It stands apart from every other mullet on this list.
Best For: Straight or sleek hair; oval face shapes; men with a strong fashion identity.
How to Style: Apply a strong-hold gel to the sides and comb flat against the head. Leave the top and back with natural texture or a slight wave. The contrast between the two sections is the point: do not blend them.
How to Style a Mullet Haircut: Step-by-Step
Step 1 Start with the Right Shampoo and Conditioner
Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. Volume-focused haircare products thicken the hair shaft, which helps the longer back and top hold their shape with less product throughout the day.
Step 2 Apply a Sea Salt Spray on Damp Hair
A sea salt spray is the foundation product for most mullet styles.
Spray it evenly through towel-dried hair and scrunch or tousle to distribute.
It creates slight grittiness that makes texture hold without weighing hair down.
Step 3 Use a Diffuser for Volume (Optional)
If your mullet style benefits from volume or curl definition, attach a diffuser to your blow dryer.
Dry on low heat and low speed while cupping sections upward.
For straight or wavy mullets, a round brush while blow drying upward adds lift at the roots.
Step 4 Finish with the Right Hold Product
Matte Clay: Best for modern, textured mullets, flexible hold, no shine.
Matte Pomade: Slightly stronger hold, ideal for choppy or spiky mullets.
Texturizing Powder: Adds volume and grip, best for thick or fluffy mullet styles.
Curl Cream: Best for curly and permed mullets defined without stiffening.
Apply to dry or nearly dry hair. Work from roots to ends and use fingertips rather than palms for better texture and separation.
Which Mullet Suits Your Face Shape?
| Face Shape | Best Mullet Styles |
| Oval | All mullet styles work most versatile face shape |
| Square | Short mullet, burst fade mullet, skin fade mullet |
| Round | Quiff mullet fade, faux hawk mullet, fluffy mullet |
| Oblong | Medium mullet, flowing mullet, curly mullet |
| Heart | Shaggy mullet, classy mullet, wolf cut mullet |
| Diamond | Mohawk mullet, choppy mullet taper fade, temp fade mullet |
What to Tell Your Barber for a Mullet
Bring a reference photo. Then use this language to get exactly what you want:
Length at the back: “I want the back to reach [collar / mid-neck / shoulder].”
ade type: “Give me a [low / mid / high] [taper / skin fade / burst fade] on the sides.”
Top length: “Leave the top [1.5 / 2 / 3] inches long.”
Texture: “Point-cut the ends for texture” or “leave it blunt.”
Fringe: “Give me a [side-swept / curtain / blunt] fringe at [brow / mid-forehead] length.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mullets in style in 2026?
Yes. The modern mullet is one of the most-requested men’s haircuts globally in 2026. The updated version with taper fades, textured tops, and burst fades has removed the dated associations and made the style genuinely fashionable.
Is a mullet hard to maintain?
Most modern mullet styles are low to medium maintenance. Short and medium mullets require a trim every 4–6 weeks to keep the back length from getting uneven. Long mullets need slightly more product investment.
What hair type is best for a mullet?
The mullet works with all hair types. Straight hair suits slick and flowing mullets, wavy hair is perfect for shaggy and wolf cut versions, and curly hair creates a natural, voluminous result that requires little styling effort.
How long does it take to grow a mullet?
Starting from a short cut, a basic mullet takes roughly 3–5 months to develop noticeable front-to-back contrast. A long mullet may take 8–12 months. Ask your barber to guide the shape as the hair grows.
Can a mullet look professional?
Yes the classy mullet, short mullet with low taper fade, and the temp fade mullet are polished enough for most workplaces. Avoid skin fades or disconnected mullets in very formal corporate environments.
Can you get a mullet with thin hair?
Yes. The shaggy mullet and short mullet are particularly suited to fine hair. Avoid very long back lengths, which can look sparse. A perm adds volume that makes thin hair look thicker throughout.
Final Thoughts
The mullet in 2026 is not what your dad or your dad’s dad wore.
Today’s version is intentional, versatile, and genuinely stylish.
Whether you want something that barely whispers ‘mullet’ with a clean taper and short back, or you want a full wolf cut hybrid that demands a second look, there is a version here that fits your hair, your face shape, and your lifestyle.
Use this guide to choose your style, take a reference photo to your barber, and don’t be surprised when it becomes your best haircut decision yet.
Leave a Reply