A mullet is a haircut that's shorter at the front and sides and longer at the back. The modern mullet softens the idea: the sides are tapered or faded, the top is textured, and the back is blended instead of hanging like a curtain. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, how to ask your barber for it and how to style it.
Modern mullet at a glance
- Top: Short to medium and textured
- Sides and back: Tapered, faded or cut short
- Maintenance: Medium
- Trim every: 3 to 4 weeks for the sides; the back can grow
What makes it different
It keeps the attitude of the original while looking deliberate and clean. It works on straight, wavy and curly hair.
Mullet vs wolf cut
A mullet has a clear difference between short sides and a long back. A wolf cut blends shaggy layers all over, so the change in length is gradual.
Who it suits
Oval, square and round faces, and hair with some wave or texture. Very fine, straight hair can look thin at the back, so keep it shorter.
Not sure about your face shape? Find it with the free face shape detector, or read our guide to men's face shapes.
How to ask your barber for a modern mullet
- Say modern mullet, and show a photo: mullets vary a lot.
- Choose the sides: low taper, burst fade or scissor cut.
- Say how long you want the back and whether to blend it into the top.
- Bring a photo. Barbers use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Sea salt spray and a quick blow dry for texture, or curl cream for curls. Avoid heavy, shiny products.
Variations
- Burst fade mullet: a rounded fade around the ear.
- Curly mullet: curls on top and at the back.
- Short mullet: a subtle version with only a little extra length at the nape.
- Wolf cut: a shaggier, more layered relative.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes weeks to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see the modern mullet on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
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FAQ
What is a modern mullet?
A mullet is a haircut that's shorter at the front and sides and longer at the back.
Who suits a modern mullet?
Oval, square and round faces, and hair with some wave or texture. Very fine, straight hair can look thin at the back, so keep it shorter.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 3 to 4 weeks for the sides; the back can grow.
