The Short Mullet Haircut: A Modern Take on a Classic for Men

The short mullet haircut is quickly becoming one of the most popular variations of the mullet, offering a more subtle and wearable version of this iconic hairstyle. Known for its signature contrast between shorter hair on the sides and longer hair at the back, the short mullet keeps the essence of the classic look while adding a contemporary twist. This cut is ideal for men who want to experiment with a modern but timeless style without going for a more extreme version.

short mullet haircut with fade

What Is a Short Mullet Haircut?

The short mullet keeps the defining feature of the traditional mullet—short at the front and sides, longer at the back—but tones it down for a more understated and modern look. In this style, the length at the back is kept shorter than in classic versions, making it less dramatic and more adaptable to a variety of settings, from casual hangouts to professional environments.

The shorter length in the back adds versatility to the style, as it can easily be styled neatly for a more polished look or left messy for a laid-back vibe. This modern approach to the traditional 1980s haircut makes it an excellent choice for men who want to experiment with the hairstyle without going over the top.

Jaime Lorente mullet
Actor Jaime Llorente from La Casa de Papel

Key Features

  1. Short Length: The defining feature of the short mullet is the reduced length of the back section. While traditional mullets can have longer, flowing hair at the back, this version keeps this length more manageable and subtle.
  2. Tapered Sides: Often, the sides of the short mullet are tapered or faded, which helps to maintain a clean and sharp look. This gives the style a more polished appearance, perfect for men who want something modern and sophisticated.
  3. Textured Back: The hair at the back, although shorter, can still be textured to add volume and movement. This keeps the style interesting and gives it a dynamic look without overwhelming the overall shape.
  4. Easy Maintenance: One of the advantages of the short mullet is that it requires less maintenance than longer versions. The shorter length is easier to manage, making it a great option for men who want a low-effort yet stylish haircut.
short mullet

Why Men Are Choosing the Short Mullet

The short mullet haircut is appealing to men for several reasons. It offers a middle ground between the boldness of the traditional haircut and the structure of more conventional hairstyles. This makes it versatile enough for men in different settings—whether you’re in a professional environment or want something edgier for a night out, the short mullet adapts well.

Additionally, the short mullet allows for more styling options. You can add texture with styling products, leave the back more natural, or slick it down for a cleaner look. The balance between the shorter sides and slightly longer back gives men the freedom to express their personality through the cut without feeling like it’s too much of a commitment.

Styling Tips for the Short Mullet Haircut

  1. Add Texture: To give your short mullet more dimension, use a light pomade or texturizing spray to bring out the natural texture in the hair, especially in the back section.
  2. Keep It Clean: Regular trims are essential for maintaining the sharpness of the taper or fade on the sides. Keeping the back short and tidy will prevent the style from looking unkempt.
  3. Adapt to Your Face Shape: The short mullet is flexible, so consider how you can adjust the fade or length at the back to suit your face shape. For example, a more pronounced taper may complement rounder faces, while a more subtle fade works well for angular faces.
thick hair and short mullet with fade

Popular Variations of the Short Mullet

This haircut offers plenty of room for variation, allowing you to customize the look to suit your style:

  • The Classic: This version stays true to the essence of the mullet with short hair on the sides and a lightly longer back. It’s simple but keeps the distinctive silhouette of this haircut.
  • The Short Mullet with Fade: Adding a fade on the sides gives this style a more modern twist, blending the shorter sides seamlessly with the longer back.
  • Curly Short Mullet: For men with curly hair, the short mullet enhances the natural texture and volume of the curls, adding a dynamic and trendy edge to the cut.

Why the Mullet Is a Modern Must-Have

The short mullet haircut offers men a fresh take on a classic hairstyle. By keeping the length at the back more controlled and incorporating modern elements like fades or textured layers, this style is a perfect blend of old-school cool and contemporary edge. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance cut or something with personality, this modern haircut is a great option for men who want to stand out without going too bold.