Low Taper Mullet, Mid Taper Fade, or High Skin Fade? Breaking Down the Best Mullet Styles

The low taper mullet has become a standout hairstyle for men who want to merge modern sophistication with a hint of retro rebellion of the 80s mullet. This unique cut combines the structured elegance of a taper with the edgy flair of a mullet, making it a versatile option for those who want a look that’s polished in the front but playful at the back. Whether you’re attending a formal event or rocking a casual streetwear vibe, the low taper mullet can adapt to a variety of styles and occasions.

Low Taper and Long in the Back Side-Part — **Low taper with a mullet.** It blends in just above the sideburns and neckline, keeping more length on the sides than a typical fade. Up top, there’s a soft side part with natural volume. In the back, a short mullet shape kicks in with a feathered finish. Effortless, modern, and a little retre, in the best way.

But it doesn’t stop at the low taper mullet...

Some guys go for a mullet with a mid taper to keep things clean without losing that laid-back vibe. It brings just enough edge to feel current but still lets your natural texture or layers take the spotlight.

Textured waves meet structure in this mullet with mid taper. The fade hits just above the ear, giving it a balanced, everyday-wearable edge.

Others take it further with a high fade mullet, going for full contrast. It’s sharp, bold, and perfect for thicker or curly hair, especially if you want to shape your profile or highlight volume.

This high fade mullet brings sharp contrast and major attitude. The skin fade is tight and clean, giving the wavy top and back more impact. Unlike a taper, the fade starts high above the temple and goes straight to the skin, leaving a less gradual blend near the neckline or sideburns.

Each version changes the look. The low taper fade mullet keeps things soft and classic, great for round or oval face shapes, and works well with straight or wavy hair. A mid taper fade gives the sides a bit more definition, helps elongate the face, and pairs nicely with looser curls or textured styles. It shifts the whole balance of your look:

From low taper mullet to high fade mullet:

What Is a Low Taper Mullet?

This edgy look for men blends two popular haircut trends: the taper fade and the mullet. The taper fade gradually shortens the hair around the sides and back, creating a clean, professional appearance that emphasizes the natural shape of the head. In a low taper, the fade starts at the bottom of the hairline, keeping more length on the sides for a subtle yet sleek effect.

Low taper fade mullet with soft curls and clean edges, a laid-back style with natural texture and sharp detail. The loose curls add movement, while the taper keeps it clean without going too short.

Key Features:

Gradual Low Taper with Fade: The fade starts near the nape of the neck and gradually fades into the skin, keeping the bulk of the hair around the sides intact.
Textured Mullet Back: The hallmark of the mullet is its length in the back. For a modern look, many men opt for textured layers, allowing the hair to flow naturally and create movement.
Contrasting Front and Back: The contrast between the clean, tapered sides and the length in the back is what makes this haircut stand out. It’s edgy but not over-the-top, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Styling Versatility: The low taper mullet can be styled in numerous ways. Whether you prefer a sleek, straight look or tousled, beachy waves, this haircut adapts to your desired vibe.

Why Choose the Low Taper Mullet?

The low taper mullet is ideal for men who want a fresh take on the classic mullet without fully committing to the boldness of a traditional cut. The low taper adds sophistication and structure, keeping the haircut sharp, while the mullet provides an opportunity to experiment with texture and length.

For men working in business or professional settings, the low taper ensures the haircut remains clean and polished at the front, while the longer back section can be styled conservatively for work or left natural for off-duty occasions.

fine hair straight texture mullet — A modern mullet. The fringe stays blunt and forward, while the back keeps it flowing just past the collar. It’s minimal, moody, and effortlessly cool, like something straight out of a 90s art house flick.

Styling Tips for the Low Taper Mullet

Texturizing Spray: Adding a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to the back section can enhance the natural movement of the mullet, making it appear fuller and more voluminous.
Pomade for Control: To keep the low taper sleek, using a small amount of pomade or styling cream will maintain a refined finish without sacrificing the hairstyle’s edginess.
Regular Trims: Maintaining the low taper mullet requires regular upkeep, particularly with the fade. Ensuring that the fade remains sharp and the back doesn’t get too unruly will keep the style looking fresh.
Embrace Natural Texture: If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, embrace it! The low taper mullet works especially well with natural textures, adding to its appeal.

The Low Taper Mullet: A Perfect Balance

The low taper mullet offers men the best of both worlds. With the clean, professional look of a taper at the front and the playful, textured mullet at the back, it’s the ideal haircut for those who want a hairstyle that is both versatile and distinctive. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back, casual look or something sharper for more formal events, the low taper mullet is sure to make a stylish statement.

low taper mullet slicked back — Mediterranean minimalism done right. Crisp white shirt, layered gold chains, and a mullet that doesn’t need to shout to stand out. The taper stays low and clean, giving just enough edge without stealing the spotlight. Hair slicked back like this leans polished, perfect for nights out or seaside dinners. But want to switch it up? Push the fringe forward and let the mullet take on a more relaxed, youthful shape. One cut, two moods.

Why the Trend Is Here to Stay

The resurgence of the low taper mullet can be credited to its versatility and adaptability, which makes it more than just a passing trend. It fuses modern grooming techniques with a retro edge, attracting men from various walks of life, from athletes to fashion-forward influencers. The clean, tapered sides maintain a professional look while the longer, textured back allows for personalization and creativity. This ability to straddle both worlds is what keeps it relevant.

This hairstyle also embodies a shift in men’s grooming toward embracing individuality and self-expression. No longer confined by traditional hairstyles, men are increasingly exploring cuts that allow for personal style, and the low taper mullet fits perfectly into this movement. It’s not just a haircut, it’s a statement, allowing for customization in terms of texture, length, and styling approach, so each man can make the look his own.

Several celebrities, such as Logan Paul and influencers, have recently been seen sporting variations of the low taper mullet, making it a popular choice among style-conscious men. From the polished, modern take seen on soccer players and athletes to more relaxed, streetwear-inspired versions worn by fashion influencers, the haircut’s adaptability is one of its greatest strengths.

curly low taper mullet — Curly low taper mullet with clean sides and soft texture up top. The curls do all the talking, while the taper keeps it sharp. Business in the front, beach party in the back, this one’s got range.

Customization Options:

One of the most attractive aspects of this edgy haircut is the range of customization it offers. Men can modify the length of the back, alter the fade, or add texture depending on their style and preferences. Here are some popular variations:

Curly Low Taper Mullet: For men with natural curls, this version of the cut emphasizes volume and texture at the back, adding depth to the style. The taper keeps the sides neat, while the curls bring in a fun, carefree vibe.
Pompadour Low Taper Mullet: Adding a pompadour elevates the look with a voluminous front, creating a stylish contrast to the sharp fade on the sides and the textured length in the back. The pompadour adds height and drama, perfect for men who prefer a more formal and structured look at the front while maintaining the fun and rebellious mullet in the back. This version of the mullet works well for those who like a sleek, well-groomed appearance but still want to embrace the longer, playful aspect of the mullet.
Layered Low Taper Mullet: For those seeking extra movement, adding layers to the longer section at the back can enhance texture and create a more dynamic appearance. Layering is ideal for men who want a more voluminous or tousled look.

The Low Taper Mullet and Different Hair Types

While the low taper mullet works exceptionally well for men with straight hair, it can also be adapted to suit different hair types. For men with wavy or curly hair, the taper helps keep the front and sides in check while allowing the natural texture to shine in the back. For those with thicker hair, thinning out the back while keeping the taper sharp can create a more balanced look without overwhelming volume.

On the other hand, men with finer hair can benefit from the added texture and layers in the back, which give the appearance of fuller, more voluminous hair. The low taper keeps the overall shape clean, which is especially important for finer hair types that might struggle to hold more voluminous styles.

low taper fade mullet with fine straight hair — This one’s all about contrast and flow. A clean **low taper fade** hugs the sideburn and neckline, keeping things sharp without going too aggressive. Up top? Lightweight, textured fine hair strands bring volume and movement, styled forward for that classic mullet energy. The back drops into soft, tousled layers that keep it modern and wearable. It’s the kind of cut that looks styled even when it’s not.

Perfect for Various Occasions

The low taper mullet is versatile enough to suit a wide range of occasions. It can be styled conservatively for professional or formal events, with the back smoothed down and the taper neatly maintained. On weekends or in more casual settings, the mullet can be left more natural, embracing its longer, textured back for a laid-back, carefree look.

Whether you’re heading into a meeting or out with friends, this haircut is adaptable to different vibes, making it an excellent option for men who don’t want to commit to just one aesthetic.

Embrace the Trend with a Modern Edge

curly mullet with a low taper fade — This curly **mullet with a low taper fade** is pure texture overload, in the best way. The sides are faded tight and clean, but it’s the volume up top that steals the show. Defined curls give the fringe a windswept, natural lift, while the back flows into soft, rounded length. Effortless and confident, this cut hits that sweet spot between retro and right now.

The low taper mullet is more than just a haircut—it’s a modern style statement that balances classic grooming with a touch of rebellious flair. By combining the clean lines of a taper with the playful nature of a mullet, this hybrid style is perfect for men who want a haircut that’s unique yet refined. With endless ways to customize it, from the fade to the texture in the back, the low taper mullet is a hairstyle that allows men to express their personality in a stylish and contemporary way.

Mid Taper Mullet: The Balanced Disruptor

For guys who want something a bit more defined than a low taper but not quite as sharp as a skin fade, the mid taper mullet hits that sweet spot. This variation brings the fade just above the ears, cleaning up the sides without sacrificing the flow of the mullet. It’s a middle ground that delivers enough contrast to feel intentional, while still embracing a softer transition.

Shorter Hair, Pompadour and Fade — Pompadour with a Mid Burst Fade Mullet

What makes the mid taper mullet stand out is its versatility. It leans a little cleaner, but still has all the personality you want in the back. It’s perfect for men who want their cut to look polished at brunch and relaxed by nightfall. You could dress it up with a collared shirt or let the curls breathe with a vintage tee. Either way, the mid taper doesn’t box you in.

Low Taper Fade Mullet — This cut showcases a medium fade that starts just above the temple, blending cleanly into the skin but keeping some length around the top. The top is styled into a high, voluminous pompadour with textured layers, while the back flows into a medium-length mullet with feathered ends. The fade is very sharp but not bald, which gives it a tapered fade look, rather than a full skin fade.

This style works especially well with natural texture — soft waves, fluffy curls, or a choppy fringe up front. The taper allows the sides to breathe without puffing out, while the back stays free to do its thing. Want to enhance that movement? A bit of matte cream or salt spray will do the trick. You’re not trying too hard, but it reads like you’ve got your look dialed in.

Mullet with a mid taper fade — This style features a bold pompadour top with a clean, rounded shape, combined with a classic mullet back that flips slightly at the ends for extra texture. The sides are faded high enough to be classified as a mid taper fade, blending above the temple with a gradual but tight transition. The sides are faded quite aggressively, leaving no taper around the sideburn.

It’s also a flattering choice for most face shapes. If you’ve got an oval or long face, the mid taper helps frame the jaw and temples without elongating your silhouette too much. It brings in just enough angular definition while keeping everything chill. It’s the type of haircut that quietly says, “Yeah, I care about style — I just don’t need to shout about it.”

Stylish Modern Haircuts 2025 — A sleek take on the modern mullet, this cut blends a clean mid-taper fade with a voluminous slick-back top and a controlled flow at the back. It’s proof that the mullet has evolved beyond rebellion into a refined, runway-worthy silhouette. Perfect for men who move between boardrooms and bold statements with ease.

High Fade Mullet: Loud, Clean, and Unapologetic

If the low taper mullet whispers retro and the mid taper nods cool guy energy, the high fade mullet straight up commands the room. This is the boldest version of the look — a confident cut that starts high above the temple and usually blends down to skin. It’s graphic, edgy, and a favorite for men with thicker or curlier hair who want to shape their style with punch and precision.

A guy with a low taper mullet — This voluminous mullet with a skin fade screams confidence and control. The sides are razor sharp, while the top flows high and back with intentional lift. It’s where rockstar attitude meets editorial polish, a cut that doesn’t whisper, it headlines.

The high fade isn’t here to play it safe. It strips down the sides to almost nothing, which makes the top and back pop even more. That contrast? It’s deliberate. It’s modern. And when paired with a clean fringe or voluminous crown, it gives the mullet silhouette a dramatic edge.

high fade mullet hard part — **High fade mullet turned all the way up.** The skin fade kicks in high above the temple, creating a bold contrast with the long top and shaved sides. A clean hard part adds structure, while the top is swept to the side with serious volume. In the back, it flows into that classic mullet shape.

Styling a high fade mullet is all about lean structure and standout flow. The top might be styled up, think tousled quiff, fluffy fringe, or a natural curl pile — while the back stays longer and textured, sometimes flipping out, sometimes sleeked down depending on the mood. Want to really level it up? Add a hard part or a subtle design etched into the fade. Not necessary, but it definitely turns heads.

modern hairstyles for men low fade mullet - high fade mullet — This dramatic high fade mullet blends volume, edge, and meticulous tapering. The sculpted pompadour adds retro muscle, while the skin fade carves a sharp contrast that feels unapologetically modern. A bold choice for the guy who knows his hair is part of his presence.

This cut suits guys who aren’t afraid to lean into the fashion-forward side of grooming. It’s not about looking like everyone else — it’s about being that guy who took the trend and made it his own. High fade mullets are especially popular with athletes, models, and influencers who play with contrasts — from tailored suits to track jackets. It’s bold, but still has room to flex.

high taper fade mullet — This blunt fringe and sharp fade combo gives the classic mullet a futuristic edge. Clean lines on the sides meet a longer back, creating contrast and attitude without sacrificing control. A hairstyle that is structured as well as subversive.

And don’t worry — despite the sharp fade, it’s still wearable. Clean edges at the sides mean it stays neat and presentable, even with a longer back. Whether you’re stepping into a creative office, heading out for the weekend, or just want to redefine your profile in the mirror, the high fade mullet lets you go all in without looking like you’re trying too hard.

This high fade mullet delivers pure statement energy. The micro fringe, ultra-clean sides, and sharp mustache create a sculptural, edgy look. A retro, punk hairstyle, perfect for the guy who wants his haircut to speak louder than words.

Whether you’re after a sleek, polished look or something edgier, this modern and trendy haircut offers versatility and character, making it one of the most exciting trends in men’s grooming today.