Many guys want a bold haircut that still looks neat each morning. The burst fade mullet does that. The sides are faded clean around the ear, the top has light texture, and the back keeps length with control. It looks tidy from the front, sharp from the side, and cool from the back.
If you are unsure, start with a low burst fade mullet. If you want more impact, go mid or skin fade.
- Want safe and neat: Low Burst Fade Mullet or Taper Mullet Fade
- Want bold contrast: Mullet Skin Fade or Burst Fade Mullet V Cut
- Straight hair that flips out: Straight Hair Burst Fade Mullet with layers
- Curly hair that puffs out: Burst Fade Mullet Curly Hair with light shape
- Low effort: Taper Short Mullet Fade or Short Mullet Fade
- Wider face: Temple Fade Mullet to slim the sides
Table of Contents
-
What is a burst fade mullet
-
Why choose a mullet fade
-
Burst fade mullet vs drop fade mullet
-
Burst fade mullet vs taper mullet fade
-
Face shape tips
-
Bangs, hairline, and sideburns
-
25 burst fade mullet variations
-
Quick reference table
-
Easy styling routine
-
What to tell your barber
-
Care and upkeep
-
Where it fits
-
Quick answers guys ask
-
Conclusion
What Is a Burst Fade Mullet
A burst fade mullet is a mullet haircut with a fade that curves around the ear, then blends into the back while keeping length at the nape. From the front, it looks tidy. From the side, the burst arc looks sharp. From the back, the mullet flow shows up. It feels modern because the sides are clean, but it still keeps that fun mullet shape.
If you want the full burst fade breakdown, see this burst fade haircut guide.
Why Choose a Mullet Fade
A mullet fade cuts down side bulk and keeps the back longer. That balance makes the haircut easier to wear every day. Most guys like it because it can look clean in a classroom, sharp at work, and strong in pictures. You can go soft with a taper, or bold with a skin fade. The burst arc is what makes it look different from a regular fade.
Burst Fade Mullet vs Drop Fade Mullet
A burst fade wraps around the ear in a rounded curve. A drop fade drops lower behind the ear and can look heavier in the back. If you want the ear curve to stand out, pick burst. If you want the fade to dip lower toward the back of the head, pick drop. Most mullet fans choose burst because the side profile looks cleaner and more “designed.”
Burst Fade Mullet vs Taper Mullet Fade
A burst fade is sharper and more noticeable. A taper mullet fade is softer and more natural. Taper keeps more hair near the ear and neckline, so it grows out smoother. If you want bold contrast, choose burst fade. If you want a calm cut that still looks neat for longer, choose taper. Many guys with strict dress codes do better with taper.
Face Shape Tips
Face shape matters, even with a messy style. Round faces look better with slimmer sides and a bit of height on top. Square faces can handle more volume, but the arc should stay smooth, not boxy. Long faces should avoid too much height, so the face does not look extra long. If you are unsure, a low or mid burst fade is usually the safest.
Bangs, Hairline, and Sideburns
A light fringe can soften the forehead and make the cut look younger. A small quiff can lift the front if you want height. Sideburns should be tidy so the arc looks clean. The nape matters too. A clean nape makes the mullet look sharp, not messy. These small details are what make a burst fade mullet look “fresh” instead of “grown out.”
25 Burst Fade Mullet hairstyles Variations
1. Classic Burst Mullet
This is the safest burst mullet for most guys. The sides stay neat with a clean curved arc around the ear, and the back sits around the collar. The top has light texture so it does not look flat. This version grows out well because the shape stays balanced. If you are new to mullets and want something easy, start here.
2. Burst Fade Mullet Haircut

This version looks sharper and more modern. The burst arc is tighter and cleaner, the top has extra texture for lift, and the back is layered so it moves. It looks tidy from the front and strong from the side. It works for school, office, and weekends because it feels bold without looking wild. A clean neckline makes it look finished.
3. Low Burst Fade Mullet

A low burst fade mullet keeps the fade close to the ear and neckline. It has less contrast, but the burst curve still shows clearly. This is a great choice for strict jobs, school rules, and guys who want a neat look that lasts. Ask for a smooth blend and a layered back so the longer hair sits down and does not look heavy.
4. Straight Hair Burst Fade Mullet

Straight hair needs layers in the back, or it can stick out like a shelf. Ask for soft layers and lighter ends so the mullet flows. Keep two to four inches on top so you have shape, then add texture so it does not go flat. The burst arc around the ear keeps your profile sharp. This is the best fix for straight hair that flips out.
5. Burst Fade Mullet Curly Hair

Curly hair looks great with a burst arc because the sides stay clean while curls stay the star. Ask for shaping so the curls do not puff out too wide near the temples. The back should have soft layers so curls keep their pattern. Keep the arc even on both sides. This version looks bold, but it still feels neat when the outline is clean.
6. Mullet Skin Fade

This is the boldest contrast. The sides fade down to skin at the base of the burst arc, then blend into the top and back. It looks sharp and loud, especially on thick hair. It also shows grow-out faster, so you will want cleanups sooner. If you want a big “wow” look in photos, skin fade is the strongest choice.
7. Mullet Side Fade

This fade sits higher on the side panel and blends fast into the crown. It slims the head shape and reduces side bulk. It is helpful if you wear hats or helmets because short sides bounce back quickly. Ask for a layered back so the mullet moves. If your sides look wide, this is a smart fix.
8. Modern Mullet Fade

This is the “clean modern” version that does not look like a costume haircut. The top is textured, the back is layered, and the outline is crisp. You can choose mid fade for stronger contrast or taper for a softer look. It is office friendly but still stylish. If you want a mullet that looks normal in daily life, this is a great pick.
9. Taper Mullet Fade

This version stays soft and natural. The taper cleans around the ear and neckline without going super short. It is great for strict schools, strict jobs, and guys who want a calm haircut. You still keep mullet length in the back, but it looks smoother. If your skin gets irritated from tight fades, taper is often more comfortable.
10. Curly Mullet Fade

This cut controls side puff while letting curls flow in the back. Ask your barber to remove bulk only where needed, so curls keep their shape. The fade should keep the ear area clean, but not climb too high. A tidy neckline makes it look fresh longer. This is a strong choice for guys who want curls to look neat, not wide and fuzzy.
11. Short Mullet Fade

Short mullet fade keeps the back modest and easy. The top has light movement, and the sides are tapered or lightly faded. It is great if you like the mullet vibe but do not want big length yet. It fits stricter dress codes and grows out cleanly. Ask for texture on top so the haircut looks relaxed on purpose, not like a basic short cut.
12. Kids Mullet Fade

Kids mullet fade should be soft and school friendly. A low fade keeps the ear area tidy, the top stays lightly textured, and the back stays short enough to behave during sports. Parents like it because it is easy to wash and quick to style. Ask for a natural hairline and clean nape. This keeps the cut neat even after a busy week.
13. Taper Modern Mullet Fade

This is a modern mullet with a gradual taper instead of a harsh fade. It looks neat for weekday life but still looks stylish in photos. The back is layered, the top is textured, and the sides stay close without going down to skin. Ask for a smooth blend from arc into crown. This keeps the haircut looking even and clean as it grows.
14. Taper Short Mullet Fade

This is one of the lowest care choices. The back stays short, the top has light texture, and the taper keeps the outline neat. It is great for fine hair because it holds shape without heavy product. It is also good if you are growing your hair and want a clean “in-between” cut. Ask for tidy sideburns and a clean neckline.
15. Modern Mullet Fade Straight Hair

Straight hair needs layers, or the back looks like a heavy block. A mid fade keeps the sides clean, while two to three inches on top gives styling room. Ask for texture through the crown so the top connects to the back. Straight hair looks best when the ends are softened, not cut blunt. This helps the mullet flow instead of stick out.
16.Burst Fade Mullet V Cut

This version adds a shallow V shape at the nape while the sides keep the burst arc. The V pulls the eye toward the back length and makes the shape look sharp. It works best when the V is centered and kept clean. Ask for a layered back so it moves. Plan trims so the V stays clear and does not turn into a messy line.
17. Mullet Burst Fade

This is the general label for a mullet with a burst arc. Your barber will set the height based on your face shape and hair type, then layer the back so it flows. Ask for a smooth bridge between the arc and crown, so you do not get a harsh step. This is a great option if you want a custom look that fits you.
18. Temple Fade Mullet

Temple fade mullet focuses on the temples and sideburn area, then blends into the longer back. It is great for wider faces because it narrows the frame without removing too much hair. The arc looks smaller and clean, so it stays neat as it grows. Ask for a tidy hairline and clean nape. This version also works well if you wear glasses.
One Quick Reference Table
| Hair or Need | Best option | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Fine straight hair | Straight Hair Burst Fade Mullet | Adds shape and movement |
| Thick hair | Mullet Side Fade or Skin Fade | Cuts bulk fast |
| Curly hair | Burst Fade Mullet Curly Hair | Frames face, controls puff |
| Low effort | Taper Short Mullet Fade | Easy styling, clean grow-out |
| Bold outline | Burst Fade Mullet V Cut | Sharp back shape |
Easy Styling Routine
Start with towel-dried hair. Use your hands, not a comb, so it stays natural. Straight hair does well with a light grip product. Curly hair does well with a small curl cream. Blow-dry on low heat and shape the top and crown with your fingers. Stop before it looks perfect. The burst fade mullet looks best when it has soft movement, not stiff shine.
What to Tell Your Barber
Say this in one line: “I want a burst fade mullet with a smooth blend from the ear arc into a layered back.”
Then add details:
-
Low, mid, or skin burst
-
How long you want the back
-
Rounded nape or V cut
-
Fringe or no fringe
-
Beard blend or clean shave
If you want a softer option, mention taper. If you want more fade ideas, show the burst fade haircut guide. For a cleaner everyday side option, you can also compare it to a low taper fade haircut.
Care and Upkeep
Most guys trim it every four to six weeks. Skin fades often need sooner because contrast shows growth faster. Wash two or three times a week with gentle shampoo. Use conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends so the back does not dry out. Between barber visits, keep the nape and around the ears tidy. That small cleanup keeps the whole haircut looking fresh.
Where It Fits
For office and school, pick a low burst or taper with a shorter back. For weekends and photos, go mid burst and keep more back length. For a fashion look, pick a skin fade or V cut nape. Every version can look neat if the outline is clean and the back is layered with control.
Quick Answers Guys Ask
Is a burst fade mullet hard to style?
No. With the right layers, it takes a few minutes with fingers and light product.
What is best for straight hair?
Straight Hair Burst Fade Mullet with layers in the back to stop flipping.
What is best for curly hair?
Burst Fade Mullet Curly Hair with shaping to control side puff.
How often should I trim it?
Most guys do a cleanup every four to six weeks.
Conclusion
The burst fade mullet gives you bold shape with clean control. Keep the ear arc neat, add light texture on top, and layer the back so it flows. Pick the version that fits your hair type and your daily life, from low and taper cuts to skin fades and V cuts. Save one photo, use the barber words in this guide, and you will get a mullet fade that looks sharp and feels easy every day.