Modern Mullet Haircut Trends: 10 Unique Looks and How to Style Them

The modern mullet has evolved from its 1980s stereotype into one of today’s most versatile and sophisticated hairstyles. This article explores 10 contemporary variations of the modern mullet while going beyond the basics with dozens of image inspirations, detailed style notes, and step-by-step cutting guidance. You’ll also find styling methods, maintenance tips, and practical advice on how to cut and style a modern mullet.

10 Modern Mullet Hairstyles to Try

The modern mullet still plays with the classic mullet formula—short up front, long in the back, but now there’s way more room to make it your own. We’re seeing crisp tapers, textured layers, and fades so clean they could pass for architecture. Some mullets feel bold and loud, others subtle and low-key. That’s the beauty of it. There’s no one way to wear it anymore.

The modern mullet offers something rare: a haircut that can be both polished and wild, masculine and unbothered, classic and undeniably current. Here are 10 standout modern mullet hairstyle variations:

1. Modern Mullet with Taper Fade

For the guy who wants just enough edge. This version trims the back short while leaving some volume on top. A subtle low taper fade cleans up the sides.

Best for: Workplace-friendly edge with subtle rebellion
Hair type: Works on all textures, especially effective on straight to wavy hair
Maintenance: Every 3-4 weeks for fade touch-ups

Modern Mullet fade — Modern Mullet with Low Taper Fade – a sharp, fashion-forward cut that blends clean faded sides with the textured flow of the mullet, making the style both edgy and refined.

The low taper fade creates clean side transitions while maintaining the signature back length. The contrast feels intentional rather than dramatic.

Styling requirements:

Matte clay for texture definition
Sea salt spray for natural movement
5-10 minutes daily styling time

Face shape compatibility: Ideal for round and square faces as the vertical length balances width

Tip: Looks best when textured with matte clay or light sea salt spray.

2. Modern Mullet with Messy Texture

Think messy front, tapered sides, and a lived-in back that looks like you just woke up cool. Perfect for guys with straight or wavy hair who want a little rock ‘n’ roll in their routine.

Best for: Rock-inspired casual style
Hair type: Straight to wavy, medium thickness
Maintenance: Every 4-6 weeks

a young man with a high taper fade modern mullet, featuring short tapered sides, curly textured hair on top — High Taper Fade Modern Mullet – cleanly tapered high on the sides with textured curls on top and a longer back, this cut sharpens the mullet while keeping its natural flow.

Features deliberately tousled front sections, precision-tapered sides, and naturally flowing back length. The “lived-in” appearance requires strategic cutting to appear effortless while maintaining structure.

Styling essentials:

Texturizing paste for separation
Light hold spray for movement
Minimal daily maintenance required

Professional tip: Request “choppy layers” in the fringe area for authentic texture.

3. Shag-Inspired Modern Mullet

The shag mullet is peak ’70s meets the 2020s. With choppy layers from crown to nape, it softens the silhouette without losing that rebellious vibe. Add a little fringe in the front, and you’re golden.

Best for: Vintage-modern fusion aesthetic
Hair type: All textures, particularly effective on wavy hair
Maintenance: Every 5-6 weeks for layer refresh

shaggy haircut — Modern Mullet Shaggy Style – This 1970s-influenced variation incorporates **choppy layers** throughout the crown and nape areas. The layering softens the traditional mullet silhouette while preserving rebellious character. Front fringe adds facial framing.

Key characteristics:

Multiple layer lengths for dimension
Feathered edges for movement
Versatile styling options (slicked or messy)

Styling products:

Volumizing mousse for lift
Lightweight oil for shine without weight
Optional: subtle texturizing spray

Modern Mullet with Shaggy Texture – layers and tousled volume give this mullet a relaxed, lived-in feel while keeping its sharp, fashion-forward edge.

Tips: It goes well with retro 70s outfits and a bit of eyeliner, just saying.

4. Curly Textured Modern Mullet

Let the curls shine. A mid fade around the ears gives structure while the top and back stay loose and voluminous. This is the one for texture-rich hair types that refuse to be tamed.

Best for: Embracing natural texture
Hair type: Curly to coily textures (3A-4A curl patterns)
Maintenance: Every 4-5 weeks for shape maintenance

messy modern mullet — Curly Modern Mullet by barber @__alvarovargas

Curl-specific considerations:

Requires curl-experienced barber
Dry cutting techniques preferred
Leave-in conditioner essential for health

Styling approach: Scrunching method for natural shape

Pro Tip: Enhance with diffuser and curl cream—no crunch.

5. Burst Fade Mullet

The fade haircut here curves around the ear in a perfect burst, giving way to a tight top and flowing back. It’s sculpted and clean, and when done right, feels almost futuristic.

Best for: Showcasing barber precision
Hair type: Thick to medium density, straight to wavy
Maintenance: Every 2-3 weeks for fade perfection

The burst fade mullet follows the natural curve of the ear, forming clean arcs that contrast sharply with the longer, flowing length at the back. It’s a precise, high-skill cut that makes a bold and eye-catching statement.

Technical requirements:

Precision clipper work
Multiple guard lengths for gradation
Expert blending techniques

Styling minimal due to structural precision:

Light pomade for definition
Optional texturizing for movement

Pro Tip: Great pick for barbers who want to flex their skills.

6. Wavy Modern Mullet

The softest take on the trend. It flows with your natural waves and requires minimal styling. Pair it with a loose low taper or even grown-out sides for a chill, effortless vibe.

Best for: Low-maintenance natural flow
Hair type: Natural waves (2A-2C patterns)
Maintenance: Every 6-8 weeks

wavy modern mullet — Modern Mullet with Wavy Hair – textured waves add volume and movement to the mullet, while the shorter sides keep the style clean and contemporary.

Works with natural wave patterns rather than against them. Requires minimal daily styling while offering maximum versatility. Can be enhanced for formal occasions or left natural for casual wear.

Wave-enhancing techniques:

Sea salt spray application on damp hair
Scrunching method during drying
Air-drying preferred over blow-drying

Styling variations:

Slicked back for professional settings
Tousled for weekend casual
Side-parted for versatile middle ground

Pro Tip: Use sea salt spray and scrunch it—done.

7. K-Pop Inspired Sleek Mullet

Draws from Korean pop culture aesthetics with polished precision and dramatic volume contrasts. Features feathered layering, pronounced crown height, and often incorporates color elements.

Best for: Bold, contemporary fashion statements
Hair type: Straight, thick hair that holds structure
Maintenance: Every 3-4 weeks for precision

Asian man with a sleek modern mullet — Sleek Asian Modern Mullet – sharp layers frame the face with precision while the longer back creates a smooth, flowing silhouette for a polished yet edgy look. **Explore more:** The Asian Mullet: Challenging Traditions

Advanced styling requirements:

Heat styling tools (blow dryer, possible straightener)
Strong-hold products for volume maintenance
Daily styling commitment (15-20 minutes)

Pro Tip: Great for thick, straight hair that holds structure.

8. High Fade Mullet

Creates aggressive contrast through high temple fades while maintaining substantial top and back length. This bold variation makes immediate visual statements and suits confident personalities.

Best for: Maximum contrast and drama
Hair type: Thick, straight hair for optimal impact
Maintenance: Every 2-3 weeks for fade maintenance

high fade mullet — Modern Mullet with High Skin Fade

Contrast elements:

Dramatic length differences
Sharp fade lines above temples
Substantial back flow for movement

Styling for impact:

Daily styling essential for maintaining shapeWorks well on thick or straight hair.
Strong-hold pomade for definition
Blow-drying for volume enhancement

9. The Sporty Modern Mullet

This one’s straight off the pitch—mid taper fade, a little height up top, and a loose but intentional back. You’ve probably seen it on your favorite La Liga or Premier League star.

Best for: Active lifestyles requiring sweat-resistant styling
Hair type: Medium to thick density for volume retention
Maintenance: Every 4-5 weeks

sporty soccer player modern mullet — Sporty Modern Mullet – tapered sides flow into longer textured layers at the back, giving this cut an athletic yet stylish edge that blends sharpness with movement.

This variation combines mid-taper fades with intentional crown volume and functional back length. Designed for movement and perspiration resistance.

Athletic considerations:

Sweat-resistant product selection
Quick post-workout refresh capability
Maintains shape during physical activity

Pro Tip: Sweat-resistant styling: use a light hold cream or leave it loose.

10. V-Shaped Mullet with Tapered Sides

Here’s one for detail-lovers. The nape comes to a soft point, creating a V-shape that’s clean and unique. Tapered sides keep it tight without going full fade, and the top stays textured.

Best for: Detail-oriented individuals seeking unique elements
Hair type: Straight to slightly wavy for clean lines
Maintenance: Every 4-5 weeks for V-shape precision

v shaped fade haircut — V-Shaped Modern Mullet

Precision requirements:

Razor detailing at neckline
Symmetrical V-point creation
Gradual taper blending

Pro Tip: Ask your barber for razor detailing at the neckline.

Styling the Look: Keeping It Real and Contemporary

Forget the crunchy sprays and wet-look gels of the past. Today’s vibe is all about natural flow. Guys are reaching for:

modern mullet male — Textured Modern Mullet, voluminous hair on top styled with flow and lift, contrasted by clean faded sides and a longer mullet back for a bold, structured look.

Sea Salt Spray: A quick spritz for that beachy texture to keep it looking effortless.
Matte Clay: Just enough grip without the glossy shine, perfect for taming the back.
Light Creams: Keeps flyaways in check but doesn’t weigh it down—I tried some on my own hair just to see, and it’s subtle but clutch.

The trick is letting your hair do its thing: straight, wavy, or even a curly textured mullet, whatever.

Short History of The Mullet

Rewind to the ‘80s, and the mullet was king. Picture Billy Ray Cyrus strumming through “Achy Breaky Heart,” Patrick Swayze smoldering on screen, or hockey legend Jaromir Jagr letting those locks flow under his helmet.

Billy Ray Cyrus in the 90s — The singer Billy Ray Cyrus during a performance of “Achy Breaky Heart” late 80s-early 90s

Short up top, wild down the back—it was the haircut of rural dive bars, rock stages, and ice rinks. My dad still swears it was his peak look, proudly flipping through old albums while we groaned. By the ‘90s, though, it was toast, a punchline for bad taste and worse decisions.

The Modern Mullet Today: A Glow-Up for the Ages

Today’s take on this cut is a far cry from the mullets of yore. Barbers have turned it into something sharp, deliberate, and honestly kind of cool. Here’s how the modern mullet’s shaking out this year:

grunge textured vibes — Modern Mullet with choppy layers and texture.
This modern textured haircut also has some grunge vibes on it.

Layers That Actually Work: The old-school version was all about that jarring short-to-long drop. Now? It’s smooth, textured layers that flow like they’re meant to be there. Stylists are snipping with ninja-level skill to give it bounce and shape.
The Cropped Modern Version or Short Mullet: One version I keep spotting is shorter in the back—just kissing the neck. It’s got the spirit of the classic without screaming “mullet” from a mile away.
Shaggy Mash-Up: Some guys are blending it with shag vibes, choppy layers all over, crown to sides. It softens the silhouette but keeps that playful edge. You can slick it down for work or mess it up for the weekend.
Next-Level Craft: The real game-changer is the precision. In the ‘80s, mullets looked like a DIY disaster. The modern mullet’s different—we’re talking millimeter-perfect cuts, sculpted to your head like it’s architecture.

Who’s Fueling This Modern Mullet Wave?

This isn’t happening in a bubble. There’s a whole crew pushing it forward:

Athletes Owning It: It started with hockey players tipping their hats to the mullet’s glory days—think Jagr redux. Now, it’s footballers showing off fades with trailing locks, soccer stars pairing it with sleek kits, even tennis pros bouncing around with it. Their spotlight’s turning it into a flex, not a flop.

soccer player with an undercut modern mullet — Modern Mullet Undercut

Fashion Breaking Rules: With gender lines blurring, the modern mullet’s hitting a sweet spot. Short sides feel familiar, but that bold back flips the script. It’s this weird mix of safe and wild—perfect for guys who want to mess with the norm.

Social Media Hype: TikTok and Instagram are the rocket fuel here. I’ve lost hours scrolling through transformation clips. It’s viral, global, and inspiring guys like my friend to hit up their barbers with “let’s try it” energy.

modern mullet with thin hair — The mullet really works with every hair type and texture from straight and thin to thick and wavy textures.

The Modern Mullet Global Influence Among Young Guys

The beauty of the modern mullet is how it morphs depending on where you are. It’s like the haircut’s got a passport and a personality to match every stop. Around the world, people are putting their own stamp on it, and the variations are as wild as they are cool.

In fashion hubs like Paris, Milan, or London, the modern mullet leans hard into editorial territory. Think sides buzzed down to the scalp, with the back left long and striking—almost like a runway statement.

modern mullet with burst fade — Modern Mullet with Burst Fade

Down under by the beach, they’ve never fully let go of the mullet love. Under the sea waves, the modern mullet’s got a sun-bleached surfer hair look—like someone just stepped off the beach after a surf session. It’s longer all over, worn loose with barely a dab of product, radiating that laid-back, no-worries vibe Aussies do so well.

It’s crazy how one hairstyle can look so different depending on where it lands. The modern mullet’s like a blank canvas—each region paints it with their own colors, and the results are anything but boring.

modern mullet with taper — Modern Mullet with Tapered Sides and Textured Hair

How do you cut a modern mullet?

Cutting a modern mullet requires balance, precision, and a clear understanding of current styling trends. It’s not just about letting the back grow — it’s about creating a shape that feels edgy, intentional, and wearable in modern settings. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Section the hair.
Start by separating the hair into top, sides, and back. Clip the top out of the way. This will help keep clean lines and create structure.

How do you cut a modern mullet? — Mullet haircut by barber @andrezbarbers

Step 2: Taper or fade the sides.
Modern mullets often feature a mid taper, skin fade, or drop fade on the sides. This adds sharp contrast and makes the overall cut feel cleaner than its retro predecessor.

Step 3: Trim the top and fringe.
Use scissors or a razor to add layers and texture through the top. You can leave it longer and shaggy for a wolf-cut vibe or keep it shorter and neater depending on your style. If adding curtain bangs or a fringe, part the front and cut just above the brow line for a soft frame.

Step 4: Shape the back.
The length in the back is what defines a mullet. Use scissors to create a gradual or dramatic transition from crown to nape, depending on the desired intensity. Keep the ends soft or point-cut for movement.

Step 5: Blend.
Use a texturizing shear to blend the crown area into the back and top. You want contrast, but not disconnection — unless you’re going for a bold, undercut-style mullet.

Step 6: Detail and finish.
Edge up the neckline and sideburns. Use a razor or trimmer to clean the lines, especially around the ears. Finish with styling to see how the shape falls in motion.

Pro tip: Bring a few photos to your barber and clarify whether you want a more “fashion mullet” (e.g. K-pop or soccer-inspired) or something subtle like a layered shag with taper.

How do you style a modern mullet?

Styling a modern mullet is all about enhancing texture, creating lift at the crown, and letting the back flow naturally. Whether your mullet is messy and grunge-inspired or polished and clean, the right products and techniques make all the difference.

Step 1: Start with clean, towel-dried hair.
Pat your hair dry — don’t rub it. Apply a pre-styler like a volumizing mousse or sea salt spray to add body and hold.

blowdrying hair with mullet — Modern Mullet styling and haircut by barber @andrezbarbers

Step 2: Blow dry with intention.
Use a round brush or diffuser, depending on your hair type. Blow-dry the crown upwards and back to create volume, and either flick out the back or let it fall naturally. For fringe or curtain bangs, dry them forward and part with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

Step 3: Apply product for definition.
Depending on your style:

Use matte clay or paste for a choppy, textured finish.
Use pomade or styling cream for a more defined, wet look.
Use curl cream or leave-in conditioner for wavy or curly mullets.

how to cut a modern mullet — Hairstyling image by barber @andrezbarbers

Step 4: Detail the fringe or bangs.
Use your fingertips to style the front — sweep curtain bangs outward, piece them together, or let them fall naturally.

Step 5: Don’t forget the back.
Add a little product to the back to keep it from looking too limp or disconnected. You can twist the ends slightly for a rock-inspired finish or leave it natural for more movement.

Style tip: A little bit of intentional mess goes a long way. The goal is effort-meets-attitude — not too perfect, not too wild.

a guy with a modern mullet back texture straight black hair — Modern mullet haircut by barber @andrezbarbers

How do you grow a modern mullet?

Start by growing out the back and top evenly while keeping the sides short and neat with regular tapers or fades. A mullet requires intentional shaping — avoid letting the hair grow wild. Around the 3–4 month mark, ask your barber to begin shaping the back and texturizing the top, while maintaining tight sides. Patience is key, but by 6 months, you’ll have a strong foundation for most modern mullet styles.

How do you ask for a modern mullet at the barbershop?

Be specific. Say you want a modern mullet with shorter, faded or tapered sides, textured layers on top, and a longer length at the back. Mention if you want curtain bangs, a skin fade, a drop fade, or a more subtle taper. It’s always a good idea to show a photo of the exact version you want — whether that’s a curly mullet, a wolf cut-inspired mullet, or something edgier with a hard part or undercut. A good barber will guide you through what’s achievable based on your hair type and face shape.

What’s Next for the Modern Mullet?

Trends usually fizzle, but this one’s got staying power. It’s not stuck in one place, every few months, there’s a new spin that keeps it alive. I can see it, guys growing hair longer and adding more texture. The modern mullet’s like a chameleon. It shifts with you!

The modern mullet has carved out its place in today’s style landscape, blending longer, textured lengths with the sharp precision of faded sides. It’s part throwback, part evolution, and honestly, it just works. If your hair’s due for something new, this might be the perfect time to lean in and make the cut.

—Edited by Fernando Lahoz-García, a New York-based fashion art director and M.A. in Journalism and Social Issues