30 Best Mullet Haircuts for Men: Modern Styles That Redefine Cool
The mullet haircut is back and it’s cooler, bolder, and more versatile than ever. What was once a rebellious retro cut has evolved into a modern men’s hairstyle that fuses edge with style. From sleek fades and spiked tops to curly shags and permed waves, today’s mullets go far beyond “business in the front, party in the back.”
Whether you’re chasing rockstar vibes, street-style flair, or a low-maintenance twist, there’s a mullet for every personality and hair type. This guide explores 30 of the best modern mullet haircuts for men with expert styling tips to help you nail the look.
Why the Modern Mullet Works
- Edgy yet versatile: Pair with fades, curls, spikes, or color
- Works on all hair types: Straight, wavy, curly, thick, or fine
- Customizable length: From subtle to dramatic
- Low-maintenance styling: Just the right amount of effort
- Trend-driven and expressive: Makes a bold personal statement
30 Best Mullet Haircuts for Men (In Deatil)
1. Modern Mullet
The Modern Mullet is a sleek evolution of the classic 80s cut refined, stylish, and incredibly versatile. With short, tapered sides, a textured top, and length left in the back, this haircut strikes a perfect balance between edgy and wearable. It suits a wide range of hair types and face shapes, making it a top pick in today’s barbershops. Whether styled messy or clean, the modern mullet is all about embracing individuality with a fashion-forward twist.
Key Features:
- Short-to-medium length on top with clean or tapered sides
- Longer hair at the back of the head, flowing into the neck
- Pairs well with fade variations or a scissor taper
- Ideal for straight, wavy, or textured hair
- Contemporary and low-maintenance, great for everyday wear
Styling Tips:
- Start with clean, towel-dried hair
- Apply a light styling mousse or sea salt spray to damp hair to add texture
- Use a blow dryer with a round brush or fingers to lift the top and direct it back or to the side
- Scrunch the back section while drying to encourage natural flow and movement
- Once dry, finish with a matte clay or lightweight pomade to define layers and control flyaways
- For a polished look, ask your barber for a low or mid taper fade to modernize the silhouette
- Optional: Add subtle highlights or balayage at the tips to enhance texture and depth
2. Long Mullet
The Long Mullet is a bold and expressive take on the iconic haircut perfect for men who want to stand out with drama, texture, and attitude. With longer lengths flowing past the shoulders in the back and shorter layers up front, this style captures a rockstar-meets-surfer aesthetic. It’s ideal for thick or wavy hair and offers plenty of room for customization through layering, color, and fades. The long mullet is unapologetically stylish and full of personality.
Key Features:
- Extended length at the back shoulder-length or longer
- Shorter crown and top layers for contrast and shape
- Often paired with tapered sides or a faded undercut
- Works best on thick, wavy, or curly hair
- Adds a rebellious, laid-back vibe with maximum movement
Styling Tips:
- Wash with moisturizing or curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner
- Towel dry gently and apply leave-in conditioner or sea salt spray to boost texture
- Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to detangle and shape
- Air dry for a raw, beachy look, or use a diffuser for enhanced wave definition
- Define layers and ends with a matte cream or light styling wax
- For added visual appeal, incorporate balayage or sun-kissed highlights
- Maintain the shape with regular trims especially at the crown and nape to prevent uneven growth
3. Short Mullet
The Short Mullet is a clean, low-maintenance take on the traditional mullet perfect for men who want a subtle edge without going over the top. With shorter top and back sections, this version still preserves the classic “party in the back” feel while keeping things neat, fresh, and modern. It’s a great intro cut for those curious about the mullet trend, and it works well with fades, tapers, or natural scissor cuts on the sides.
Key Features:
- Cropped top and crown with a slightly elongated back
- Short enough to be office-friendly, but still stylish
- Often paired with a low fade, taper, or tight scissor cut on the sides
- Ideal for straight, thick, or wavy hair
- Offers a refined, minimalist mullet aesthetic
Styling Tips:
- Use a volumizing shampoo to give the short top lift and body
- Apply matte clay or styling paste to towel-dried hair for texture and hold
- Style the top with your fingers or a vented brush to create natural movement
- Use a dab of lightweight pomade in the back to shape and define the mullet tail
- Ask your barber for a low or mid taper fade to sharpen the overall silhouette
- For extra style, consider a textured fringe or a line-up around the hairline
- Minimal maintenance—just trim every 3–4 weeks to keep it tight and structured
4. Mullet Taper Fade
The Mullet Taper Fade is a perfect fusion of old-school edge and modern refinement. Featuring a gradual taper on the sides and back that smoothly blends into the longer mullet tail, this style adds a clean, professional touch to a bold haircut. It maintains the signature mullet silhouette while offering shape, contrast, and versatility. Great for men who want a stylish look with just the right amount of attitude, the taper fade mullet is both wearable and trend-forward.
Key Features:
- Tapered sides and neckline for a sleek, blended finish
- Longer back section maintains the traditional mullet shape
- Great balance between structure and flow
- Suits straight, wavy, or curly hair
- Highly customizable with low, mid, or high taper options
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a low, mid, or high taper fade based on how sharp or subtle you want the look
- Leave enough length at the back for the mullet tail to flow
- Wash and towel dry hair, then apply sea salt spray or lightweight mousse for texture
- Blow-dry the top and back sections with your fingers or a brush to create volume and shape
- Use matte clay or paste to style the top swept back, forward, or tousled
- For a polished finish, define the taper line with beard trimming or edge-up detailing
- Maintain the taper every 2–3 weeks for a clean, structured appearance
5. Mohawk Mullet
The Mohawk Mullet is a fearless fusion of two of the most rebellious men’s hairstyles—bringing together the height and edge of a mohawk with the flow and attitude of a mullet. This bold style features a narrow strip of hair running from the forehead to the nape, paired with shaved or closely faded sides for maximum contrast. Ideal for those who want a truly standout look, the mohawk mullet delivers high-impact style with room for creativity through spikes, curls, or even color.
Key Features:
- Signature mohawk strip from front to back
- Shaved or skin-faded sides for high contrast
- Long, flowing or spiked hair in the back
- Best suited for thick, wavy, or curly hair
- A statement-making look full of attitude and texture
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a narrow, elevated strip of hair from forehead to nape with clean-shaven or skin-faded sides
- Use volumizing shampoo to lift the roots and prevent heaviness
- Apply strong-hold styling gel, mousse, or matte clay to sculpt the mohawk
- Spike the top upward or tousle it loosely for a more rugged effect
- For curly hair, use a curl-enhancing cream and diffuse dry for bold texture
- Air dry or blow dry depending on desired volume; scrunch the back to emphasize flow
- Add blonde tips, bold colors, or shaved designs on the sides for an extra punch
- Trim regularly to maintain clean side fades and sharp shape
6. Curly Mullet
The Curly Mullet is a stylish celebration of natural volume, bounce, and personality. By combining the classic mullet shape with curly or coiled texture, this look offers a modern twist on retro cool. The curls add movement and softness to the bold silhouette, while the shorter top and sides create definition and structure. Perfect for guys with natural curls or perms, the curly mullet is effortlessly edgy and full of texture.
Key Features:
- Short-to-medium length curls on top with a longer curly tail in the back
- Works best on natural curls, coils, or permed hair
- Can be paired with a fade, taper, or scissor-cut sides
- Softens the traditional mullet shape with volume and flow
- Great for showing off natural texture with minimal styling
Styling Tips:
- Use a moisturizing or curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner to define curls and reduce frizz
- Apply leave-in conditioner or curl cream to damp hair for hydration and control
- Use a diffuser attachment when blow-drying to enhance curl shape and volume
- Scrunch the curls at the top and back while drying to amplify the natural movement
- For more hold, finish with a lightweight styling gel or mousse avoid heavy products that weigh curls down
- Ask your barber for layered shaping at the crown and a soft taper on the sides
- Maintain the curls with regular trims and occasional deep conditioning treatments
- Optional: Add sun-kissed highlights or a soft fade to enhance definition and contrast
7. Shaggy Mullet
The Shaggy Mullet is a laid-back, textured take on the mullet that screams rock-and-roll rebellion with effortless cool. Defined by choppy, uneven layers, this version offers a carefree, tousled look that works great on straight, wavy, or fine hair. The front and crown have a lived-in, messy vibe, while the back keeps the mullet’s signature length. It’s ideal for guys who want a low-effort, high-style cut with plenty of volume and movement.
Key Features:
- Heavily layered cut with messy, uneven texture
- Longer back with wispy, feathered edges
- Best suited for fine to medium straight or wavy hair
- Low-maintenance and perfectly imperfect aesthetic
- Great for adding volume and shape to thinner hair types
Styling Tips:
- Wash with a volumizing or texture-boosting shampoo to add lift
- Towel dry, then apply texturizing spray or sea salt spray while damp
- Air dry or use a blow dryer with a diffuser, scrunching hair with your fingers to create movement
- For extra grit, apply matte texture paste or dry styling cream to piece out layers
- Ask your barber for razor-cut or point-cut layers throughout the crown and back for that signature shaggy finish
- Let the fringe fall forward or sweep it to the side for a more relaxed, casual vibe
- Optional: Add highlighted ends or face-framing streaks to enhance the shag’s depth and dimension
8. Mullet Fade
The Mullet Fade is a sharp, modern take on the traditional mullet that adds precision and contrast through expertly blended sides. With a high, mid, or low fade that seamlessly transitions into the longer hair at the back, this style maintains the rebellious spirit of the mullet while giving it a sleek, contemporary edge. It’s perfect for men who want something bold yet clean, especially those who appreciate barbershop detailing and crisp finishes.
Key Features:
- Faded sides (low, mid, or high) for a clean, structured look
- Retains longer length in the back for mullet definition
- Pairs well with sharp lines, edge-ups, or beard fades
- Works for straight, curly, or wavy hair
- A stylish balance of old-school shape and modern precision
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a fade of your choice low for subtlety, high for dramatic contrast
- Maintain length in the back and medium length on top for styling flexibility
- Towel dry after washing, then apply sea salt spray or volumizing mousse to damp hair
- Blow-dry the top with a round brush or your hands to create lift and movement
- Use a matte paste or styling cream to shape the top and define the mullet tail
- Optional: Enhance the fade with a lineup or temple edge-up for crisp detail
- Maintain the fade and neckline with touch-ups every 2–3 weeks for a clean finish
9. Burst Fade Mullet
The Burst Fade Mullet is a bold and stylish hybrid that blends the rounded burst fade with the edgy silhouette of a mullet. The fade curves naturally around the ear, creating a smooth, circular transition that emphasizes the length in the back while keeping the sides tight and clean. This cut is ideal for men who want maximum contrast and visual appeal without sacrificing that classic mullet flow. It’s a modern barbershop favorite that combines texture, shape, and attitude.
Key Features:
- Burst fade around the ears, curving toward the neckline
- Longer back section for classic mullet flair
- Sharp contrast between sides and top/back
- Ideal for wavy, curly, or thick hair types
- Great for men who want precision and creativity in their haircut
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a burst fade that starts just above the ears and blends outward in a semi-circular shape
- Maintain length at the back and moderate length on top for balance
- After washing, apply texturizing spray or curl cream depending on hair type
- Blow-dry or air-dry while scrunching or brushing the top back for volume and flow
- Use matte clay or pomade to define the top and back—keep it soft, not stiff
- Add a line-up, beard fade, or shaved design to enhance the burst fade shape
- Schedule fade maintenance every 2–3 weeks to keep the look crisp and clean
10. Two-Block Mullet
The Two-Block Mullet merges K-style influence with mullet edge, creating a trend-forward, structured hairstyle. It features two distinct “blocks”—a longer top and back, and much shorter sides that are often undercut or faded. This sharp contrast enhances the volume and shape of the mullet, offering a versatile, fashion-driven look that’s especially popular among younger trendsetters and fans of modern Asian hairstyles.
Key Features:
- Two distinct sections: long top and back, short sides
- Clean, bold contrast with undercut or fade
- Popular in Korean and Japanese men’s fashion
- Great for straight, thick, or slightly wavy hair
- Offers a stylized, high-impact variation of the mullet
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a two-block cut clipped short sides (or faded) with disconnected length on top and back
- Keep the back flowing and natural, while the top can be layered or blunt-cut for drama
- Use a volumizing spray or styling mousse on damp hair to boost height and separation
- Blow-dry the top and back using fingers or a round brush to maintain body
- Apply a light matte wax or cream to define layers and maintain shape
- Optional: Add subtle color (like ash blonde, silver, or caramel) for a fashionable edge
- Maintain the sides every 2–3 weeks to preserve the sharp two-block structure
11. Trendy Short Mullet with Low Taper Fade
The Trendy Short Mullet with Low Taper Fade is a sleek, fashion-forward cut that blends clean barbering with casual cool. Featuring short textured layers on top, a subtle taper around the ears and neckline, and a neatly sculpted mullet tail, this style delivers versatility without losing edge. It’s a great choice for men who want a mullet that’s polished, low-maintenance, and street-style approved.
Key Features:
- Short top and back with minimal yet defined mullet shape
- Low taper fade adds clean structure without being too dramatic
- Perfect for straight, thick, or slightly wavy hair
- Professional enough for daily wear, bold enough for modern fashion
- Works well with light beard fades or edge-ups for extra precision
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a short mullet cut with a low taper fade around the ears and nape
- Leave enough length in the back to create a soft, flowing tail
- After washing, apply lightweight mousse or sea salt spray to add texture
- Blow-dry the top forward or upward to create lift and volume
- Use a matte clay or styling cream to piece out layers and control the shape
- Optional: Add subtle highlights or tone-on-tone color to enhance texture
- Visit the barber every 2–3 weeks to keep the taper tight and the shape fresh
12. Mullet Faux Hawk
The Mullet Faux Hawk is a bold, high-impact hairstyle that combines the sharp vertical lift of a faux hawk with the laid-back length of a mullet. With the top styled upward into a central ridge and the back left to flow freely, this look delivers edginess, movement, and dimension all in one. Perfect for guys who want to make a statement, the mullet faux hawk blends attitude with versatility and works across a wide range of hair types.
Key Features:
- Elevated faux hawk top with volume and direction
- Tapered or faded sides for contrast and definition
- Flowing back section maintains classic mullet energy
- Great for thick, straight, or wavy hair
- Combines rebellious structure with surf-style flow
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a faux hawk top with a mullet silhouette, plus tapered or faded sides for clean edges
- Leave ample length in the back for a soft or textured mullet tail
- Wash and towel-dry hair, then apply volumizing mousse or sea salt spray to damp strands
- Blow-dry the top upward using a round brush or your fingers, directing hair toward the center
- Use a strong-hold matte clay or wax to sculpt the faux hawk ridge and define texture in the back
- For added drama, edge up the temples or incorporate a razor line on the sides
- Maintain shape with trims every 2–3 weeks, especially around the fade and neckline
13. Temp Fade Mullet
The Temp Fade Mullet blends classic mullet shape with the crisp detail of a temple (temp) fade, creating a style that’s edgy yet polished. The temp fade—focused around the temples—offers a subtle yet sharp transition into the longer mullet back, framing the face while keeping the overall look clean. It’s perfect for men who want a well-structured, modern mullet that still feels relaxed and easygoing.
Key Features:
- Temple (temp) fade for sharp detailing around the hairline
- Short-to-medium length on top, with longer back section
- Creates structure at the sides while allowing movement in the back
- Works well with straight, curly, or wavy hair
- Ideal for pairing with edge-ups or a faded beard
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a temp fade around the temples, blended into a mullet with length at the back
- Add some layering or texture on top for easier styling and lift
- Wash and towel dry, then apply light mousse or sea salt spray to damp hair
- Blow-dry the top and back, lifting the roots slightly to add volume
- Use a matte styling cream or clay to define the top and shape the mullet tail
- Maintain the temp fade every 2–3 weeks to keep lines sharp and clean
- Optional: Add a subtle hairline design or part to elevate the temple fade’s impact
14. Faded Mullet with Fringe
The Faded Mullet with Fringe is a stylish and versatile cut that brings together the sharpness of a fade, the movement of a mullet, and the attitude of a forward fringe. This look creates visual interest by combining a textured front with a clean fade on the sides and a longer, flowing back. It’s ideal for men who want a modern mullet with an edgy twist, especially those with straight or fine hair who want more shape and definition.
Key Features:
- Tapered or faded sides for a clean, modern base
- Fringe (bangs) styled forward or side-swept for contrast
- Longer hair in the back for traditional mullet flow
- Works well on straight, fine, or slightly wavy hair
- Adds dimension and personality to the overall silhouette
Styling Tips:
- Ask your barber for a mid or low fade, leaving length in the back and shorter layers up top
- Include a forward fringe—blunt, choppy, or side-swept based on face shape
- Use a volumizing shampoo and towel dry hair
- Apply sea salt spray or texture cream to damp hair for grit and movement
- Blow-dry the fringe forward with a brush or your fingers for a relaxed, directional style
- Use a matte pomade or clay to define fringe and shape the back
- Optional: Pair with a faded beard or sharp line-up to enhance contrast and detail
- Touch up the fade every 2–3 weeks to keep the look clean and balanced
15. Fluffy Mullet
The Fluffy Mullet is all about volume, softness, and texture—offering a more playful and approachable take on the classic mullet. With thicker layers on top, feathered edges, and a full-bodied back, this style embraces a cloud-like silhouette that’s ideal for men with naturally thick, wavy, or coarse hair. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to lean into a relaxed, voluminous look without going full punk or edgy.
Key Features:
- Full, voluminous top with soft movement
- Layered back for fluffy, feathery texture
- Slight taper or scissor-cut sides to keep the shape balanced
- Ideal for thick, coarse, or naturally wavy hair
- Gives off a carefree, youthful vibe
Styling Tips:
- Wash hair with a moisturizing shampoo and lightweight conditioner to prevent frizz
- Apply volumizing mousse or sea salt spray to damp hair
- Blow-dry using a round brush or diffuser, lifting at the roots to enhance fluffiness
- Use a matte cream or lightweight texture paste to define layers and keep the shape soft
- Ask your barber for soft layering throughout, avoiding harsh fades for a more natural look
- Optional: Add light highlights or balayage to emphasize the hair’s airy texture
- Maintain the fluffy shape with monthly trims, focusing on feathered layering and balance
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the rebellious edge of the spiky mullet, the laid-back flow of a shaggy or curly mullet, or the bold precision of a skin fade or undercut mullet, this iconic hairstyle offers endless ways to express your personality. The mullet’s resurgence proves that style is cyclical and more versatile than ever. From sleek and modern to rugged and textured, these 30 mullet variations are designed to suit every hair type, vibe, and confidence level.
Embrace the balance of business in the front, party in the back, and don’t be afraid to customize the cut with texture, color, or fade options. Whether you’re heading to the barbershop for a total transformation or refining your current look, the modern mullet gives you the freedom to stand out while staying stylish.
