Mullet Hairstyles for Men 20 Modern Cuts That Actually Work

Mullet hairstyles are back, but the new versions look clean and wearable. You still get the signature contrast: tidy sides, a shaped front, and length in the back. The difference is better blending, smarter layers, and texture that fits your hair type.

In this guide, you will see 20 modern mullet hairstyles ideas, from subtle taper fades to bold burst fades. You will also get a simple way to pick the right cut for straight, wavy, or curly hair, plus a copy and paste barber script so you leave the chair happy. Save your favorite styles, then show your barber the exact look you want. We also cover styling, upkeep, and common mistakes that make mullets look messy.

• Start subtle with a taper or low fade, then go bolder later.
• Bring 2 to 3 reference photos: front, side, and back.
• The best mullets are layered so the back moves, not puffs.
• Keep the sides fresh every 2 to 3 weeks for a clean look.
• Use matte products for a modern finish and easy control.

What are Mullet Hairstyles?

Why Mullets are Back in Style

Mullets returned because barbering changed. Clean fades and tapers keep the sides tight, and layering removes bulk in the back. That fixes the biggest problem with old mullets.

They also fit today’s vibe. Guys want haircuts that feel personal and flexible. A mullet can be sporty, edgy, messy, or polished, depending on the fade and the top.

How To Choose The Right Mullet For Your Hair

Pick your mullet by deciding two things: how clean you want the sides, and how long you want the back. If you are unsure, start with a taper mullet and a medium back. It grows out well and is easy to fix.

Quick guide

• Straight hair: ask for texture and layers so it does not look flat.
• Wavy hair: soft layers look natural and low effort.
• Curly hair: keep the sides tighter and use moisture to control volume.
• Want subtle: taper or low fade.
• Want bold: burst fade or high skin fade.

How to Ask Your Barber For a Mullet

Clear instructions matter more than the name of the haircut. Tell your barber the fade type, the length you want in back, and how you want the top to sit. Then show photos from the front, side, and back.

Copy and paste barber script

• I want a modern mullet with a taper or fade: taper, low fade, mid fade, or burst fade.
• Keep the top textured and easy to style.
• Leave the back at nape length, collar length, or longer.
• Blend the transition so it looks clean.
• Clean up the neckline and around the ears.

20 Best Mullet Hairstyles for Men

Below are 20 popular mullet hairstyles for men. Each one has a different vibe, from clean and subtle to bold and high contrast. Pick one that matches your hair type and your daily routine, then show your barber.

1. Classic Mullet

The classic mullet keeps the idea simple: tidy in front, shorter on the sides, and longer in the back. Ask for a clean outline and light layering so the back sits smooth instead of bulky. This version suits straight or wavy hair and works if you want the trend without going extreme. Style it with a small amount of matte paste, then finger-comb the top forward or to the side for an everyday finish. It photographs well in photos.

2. Modern Taper Fade Mullet

A modern taper fade mullet blends the sides down around the ears and neckline while keeping length at the back. It feels cleaner than a full fade, so it can still look sharp for work or school. Ask your barber for a taper, textured top, and a back length that hits the nape or collar. Use a blow dryer for lift, then finish with a lightweight cream for control and movement. Ask for a soft neckline, keep the back tapered.

3. Curly Hair Mullet

A curly hair mullet uses your natural curl pattern to create volume and personality in the back. Keep the sides tight with a taper or mid fade so curls do not balloon out. Ask for layers through the back to prevent a triangle shape, and keep the front slightly shorter for balance. Style with leave-in conditioner plus curl cream, then scrunch and air dry. Refresh curls with water spray on day two. Avoid heavy gels that crunch and flake.

4. Shaggy Mullet

The shaggy mullet is messy on purpose, with choppy layers and a relaxed outline. It suits wavy hair best, but straight hair works if you add texture with a razor or point cutting. Ask for medium layers on top and through the back, plus a soft taper on the sides. Skip hard parts and sharp lines. Use sea salt spray for grit, then let it dry naturally for a lived-in, rock-inspired look. Great for growing hair between trims.

5. Textured Fringe Mullet

A textured fringe mullet brings focus to the front with a fringe that sits forward while the back stays longer. It is great if you want face framing without losing the mullet vibe. Ask for a cropped or medium fringe, heavy texture on top, and a gradual blend into the back. This style works well for straight or wavy hair. Use matte clay for separation, and keep the fringe slightly broken up, not flat. Works well with glasses and hats.

6. Short Mullet

The short mullet is the easiest entry point. The back is only slightly longer than the sides, so the shape looks clean and subtle. Ask for a taper or low fade, a short textured top, and a small tail at the nape. It suits men who want low maintenance and a neat profile. Style with a pea-size paste, and brush the top forward for a modern crop feel. Trim the sides every two to three weeks. Easy daily styling.

7. Long Flowing Mullet

A long flowing mullet makes the back the main feature. Keep the sides shorter to highlight the length and create contrast. Ask for long layers in the back so it moves, and keep the top medium so it does not look disconnected. This works best with wavy hair, but straight hair can pull it off with texture. Use a light cream for softness and a little spray for hold. Keep ends healthy with conditioner and trims. Air dry for softness.

8. Burst Fade Mullet

The burst fade mullet has a curved fade around the ear that blends into the longer back. It creates a rounded, modern silhouette that looks sharp from the side. Ask for a burst fade, a textured top, and a back length that matches your comfort level. This cut suits straight, wavy, and curly hair because the fade keeps the sides clean. Style the top with matte paste and define the back with a small amount of cream for flow naturally.

9. Low Fade Mullet Hairstyle

A low fade mullet starts the fade near the neckline, keeping most of the sides darker and fuller. That makes it easier to wear in professional settings while still showing the mullet shape. Ask for a low fade, light texture on top, and a back that sits at the nape or slightly longer. This style works for most hair types. Use a light styling cream for natural control, and keep the neckline cleaned up to avoid a messy finish overall.

10. Mid Fade Mullet Hairstyles

The mid fade mullet sits between subtle and bold. The fade begins around the middle of the head, giving clear contrast without removing everything. Ask for a mid fade with a smooth blend, a textured top, and a back length that suits your lifestyle. It pairs well with straight hair and waves, and it can work with curls if the top is not too heavy. Use a blow dryer for lift, then finish with matte paste for separation most days.

11. High Skin Fade Mullet

A high skin fade mullet is the loudest version. The sides are taken down to skin high on the head, making the back look longer and more dramatic. Ask for a high skin fade, a shaped top, and a back that is long enough to show movement. This is best if you like contrast and crisp lines. Style with a firm matte product to keep the top controlled. Maintain the fade every one to two weeks so it stays sharp.

12. Mullet with Beard

A mullet with beard creates a rugged, balanced look because the beard adds weight in front while the back adds length behind. Ask your barber to connect the sideburn area cleanly into the fade or taper, then shape the beard to match your face. Keep the top textured so the haircut does not look flat. This style suits most hair types. Use beard oil, and keep the neckline tidy. A mid or low fade usually looks best with fuller beards.

13. Messy Mullet Hairstyles

The messy mullet is casual and easy, with loose texture and a slightly undone finish. It works best if your hair has natural wave, but straight hair can copy the look with sea salt spray. Ask for layered texture on top and in the back, plus a soft taper on the sides. Avoid sharp edges. Style by drying with your hands, not a comb. Add a small amount of paste only at the end for separation and movement without stiffness.

14. Straight Hair Mullet

A straight hair mullet shows every line, so blending and layering matter. Ask for a clean taper or fade, plus texture on top to avoid a flat helmet shape. Keep the back long enough to be noticeable, but remove bulk with layers so it does not hang heavy. This is a great option if you like sharp, clean profiles. Style with a matte paste and finger combing. For extra lift, blow dry the front upward for thirty seconds before product.

15. Undercut Mullet

An undercut mullet has a strong disconnect between the sides and the longer back. It looks edgy because the transition is sharp, not blended. Ask for an undercut with a line, a textured top, and a back length that matches your goal. This cut suits thick hair because it removes side weight. Keep styling simple, use matte clay on top and leave the back natural. Because it is high contrast, you will need cleanups to keep the undercut line crisp.

16. Layered Mullet hairstyle

The layered mullet is built for movement. Layers reduce bulk, add flow, and keep the back from looking heavy. Ask for medium layers through the top and back, plus a taper or low fade on the sides. This works for thick, wavy, and even curly hair because layers help shape the silhouette. Style with a lightweight cream, then scrunch or finger comb for texture. If your hair is straight, add sea salt spray before drying to create lift and separation.

17. Wavy Mullet Hairstyles Men

A wavy hair mullet looks natural because waves add shape without effort. Ask for soft layers to enhance the wave pattern, and choose a taper or burst fade. Keep the top medium so you can style it forward, back, or messy. This cut is forgiving as it grows out. Use sea salt spray on damp hair, then let it air dry. Finish with a tiny amount of paste on the top only to keep the wave loose. For most guys.

18. Highlighted Mullet

A highlighted mullet makes texture pop because lighter pieces show the layers and movement. If you add color, keep it subtle and protect hair health. Ask for a modern mullet with layers, then request soft highlights through the top and back, or a few face-framing streaks. This works well on wavy or straight hair, and curls can look great with gentle dimension. Use color-safe shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant. Keep styling light with cream, not heavy wax too.

19. Rock Inspired Mullet

The rock inspired mullet leans into attitude. Think choppy layers, messy volume, and a longer back that moves. Ask for a shaggy top, textured ends, and a soft taper rather than a super clean fade. This style suits wavy hair best, but straight hair works if you add rough texture. Style with sea salt spray and a matte paste, then tousle with your hands. Let a few pieces fall forward to frame the face. Keep it slightly imperfect on purpose.

20. Sporty Mullet Hairstyle

The sporty mullet is practical, clean, and easy to maintain. The top stays shorter for comfort, the sides are tapered or faded, and the back has just enough length to show the mullet shape. Ask for a low or mid fade, a short textured top, and a back that sits at the nape. This is great for active men who sweat often. Use a light paste that rinses out easily. Keep the fade fresh every two to three weeks. Always.

How to Style a Mullet at Home

Styling is simple when you focus on texture and control. Add lift or texture on the top, keep the sides neat, and make the back look healthy instead of dry.

Fast routine

1. Start with damp hair.

2. Use a small amount of product and spread it evenly.

3. Blow dry the top for shape, then use fingers to guide the back.

4. Finish with a little more product only where needed.

Product tips

• Matte paste or clay: modern texture and hold.

• Styling cream: softer control and less frizz.

• Sea salt spray: quick volume for straight or wavy hair.

Maintenance Schedule

A mullet looks fresh when the sides are cleaned up often and the back is kept healthy. Most people wait too long to tidy the taper or fade, then the whole cut looks messy.

Common Mullet Mistakes and Easy Fixes

Most mullet problems come from imbalance. Too much bulk in back, a flat top, or a harsh disconnect can make the cut look accidental. The fix is usually better layering, a cleaner neckline, or lighter styling.

Do and do not

• Do ask for layers in the back to reduce weight.

• Do keep the sides neat with regular cleanups.

• Do use matte products for a natural finish.

• Do not overload heavy wax on the back.

• Do not skip reference photos when you want a specific shape.

Some People Also Ask Question

Are mullets still in style?
Yes. Modern mullet hairstyle are still popular because they can be subtle or bold. The key is clean sides and intentional texture.

Can a mullet look professional?
Yes. Choose a taper or low fade mullet and keep the back medium. Clean neckline and simple styling make it work-friendly.

How long does it take to grow a mullet?
Many guys see a clear mullet shape in 8 to 12 weeks, depending on starting length and growth speed.

What is the safest mullet for beginners?
Start with a short mullet or modern taper fade mullet. It is easy to maintain and easy to adjust.

Conclusion

The mullet is more than just a haircut it’s a symbol of confidence and individuality. With so many variations, from the classic to the modern fade, there’s a style for every personality. If you’re ready to stand out in 2025, choose one of these mullet hairstyles men and bring it to your barber.