What is a mullet?
Mullet — is a contrasting haircut in which the hair is cut short in the front and sides, but left long at the back. The basic principle of this style is traditionally described by the English phrase "business in the front, party in the back."
Historically, the mullet became popular in the 1970s and 1980s thanks to rock musicians like David Bowie and Paul McCartney. During this period, the shape was associated with glam rock and punk culture. In the 2020s, the mullet made a comeback in an updated, more casual version, becoming a prominent element of modern streetwear.
Main types
The classic mullet features a sharp contrast between the very short sides and the long ponytail at the back. This version often features straight, thick, and short bangs, accentuating the graphic silhouette.
The modern version (modern mullet) is built on smooth transitions and graduated techniques. It lacks harsh lines, making the shape more natural and seamlessly integrated into everyday looks.
The shaggy mullet, also known as the wolf cut, is a hybrid haircut with a strong layering throughout. It creates a voluminous, layered, and deliberately tousled texture that softly frames the face.
How to wear and style
To style a modern mullet, texturizing products are used to emphasize the layered shape. Salt sprays, matte pastes, and root-volumizing powders help highlight individual strands and avoid the appearance of flat, sleek hair.
The haircut requires regular touch-ups every four to six weeks. This is necessary to maintain the short length at the sides and bangs, without which the shape loses its distinctive silhouette.
In a wardrobe, the mullet perfectly complements grunge, street style, and eclectic aesthetics. The hairstyle looks harmonious with leather biker jackets, straight-leg jeans, and vintage T-shirts. It also creates a striking contrast when paired with oversized tailored blazers, classic white shirts, and minimalist metallic jewelry.
