Do you long to channel the effortless cool of David Bowie or the bad-boy charm of Billy Ray Cyrus? If so, it’s time to embrace the mullet, the iconic haircut that has captivated generations. This unmistakable style features short hair on top, long hair in the back, and plenty of attitude. While mullets have had their ups and downs in popularity, they’ve recently made a thunderous comeback, gracing the heads of celebrities and everyday folks alike. Whether you’re aiming for a classic mullet or a modern take on this timeless look, getting the perfect one requires careful planning and precision execution.
The mullet is a versatile haircut that can be tailored to suit a range of face shapes and hair textures. However, certain variations are particularly flattering for specific features. For instance, if you have a round face, a choppy mullet with layers and sideburns can help elongate your face. Conversely, if you have an oval face, a longer mullet with a defined back and minimal layers will accentuate your bone structure. Additionally, the texture of your hair will influence the overall look of your mullet. Fine hair will benefit from a layered mullet to create volume, while thick hair can handle a more blunt cut. No matter your face shape or hair type, with the right cut, you can rock a mullet that turns heads.
Choosing the Right Mullet for Your Face Shape
The mullet is a versatile hairstyle that can suit a variety of face shapes. However, it’s important to choose the right mullet for your own unique features. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect mullet for your face shape:
Oval Face
Oval faces are considered the “ideal” face shape, and they can pull off any type of mullet. However, a layered mullet with soft, face-framing layers is particularly flattering for oval faces.
Round Face
Round faces are characterized by a wider jawline and a rounder chin. A mullet with short sides and a longer back can help to slim down the face and create the illusion of a more defined jawline.
Square Face
Square faces have a strong jawline and a wide forehead. A mullet with a choppy top and a long, layered back can help to soften the angles of the face and create a more balanced look.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart-shaped faces are characterized by a wider forehead and a narrow chin. A mullet with a shorter front and a longer back can help to balance out the face and create a more flattering look.
| Face Shape |
Recommended Mullet |
| Oval |
Layered mullet with soft, face-framing layers |
| Round |
Mullet with short sides and a longer back |
| Square |
Mullet with a choppy top and a long, layered back |
| Heart-Shaped |
Mullet with a shorter front and a longer back |
Styling and Maintaining Your Mullet
1. Wash and Condition
Regularly wash and condition your hair to keep it healthy and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle. Use a shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type, and avoid washing it too often, as this can strip it of its natural oils.
2. Blow Dry
After washing, blow dry your hair using a round brush. This will help to create volume and shape, and give your mullet a more polished look. Start by drying the roots, and then work your way down the length of your hair, using the round brush to curl the ends under.
3. Use Products
There are a variety of products that can help you to style and maintain your mullet. Hairspray can be used to hold your style in place, and mousse can add volume and texture. You can also use a pomade or wax to define and shape your mullet.
4. Trim Regularly
Regular trims will help to keep your mullet looking neat and tidy. Aim to get your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks, or more often if you have a particularly fast-growing hair type.
5. Avoid Over-Styling
While it’s important to style your mullet to keep it looking its best, it’s also important to avoid over-styling. Over-styling can damage your hair and make it look dry and brittle. Use a light hand when applying products, and avoid using heat styling tools too often. Here’s a table summarizing the key points for styling and maintaining your mullet:
| Step |
Description |
| 1 |
Wash and condition your hair regularly. |
| 2 |
Blow dry your hair using a round brush to create volume and shape. |
| 3 |
Use hairspray, mousse, pomade, or wax to style and maintain your mullet. |
| 4 |
Trim your hair regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy. |
| 5 |
Avoid over-styling to prevent damage and dryness. |
Variations on the Classic Mullet
The Business Mullet
For those who want a mullet without looking too extreme, the business mullet is a subtle variation. The hair on top is kept short and styled in a conservative manner, while the back is left longer to create a mullet effect. This style is suitable for professional settings where a more traditional look is required.
The Short Mullet
As the name suggests, the short mullet is a shorter version of the classic mullet. The hair on top is cut shorter, resulting in a more balanced look. This style is easy to manage and style, making it a good choice for those with active lifestyles.
The Asymmetrical Mullet
The asymmetrical mullet adds an edgy twist to the classic style. One side of the hair is cut shorter than the other, creating an unbalanced look. This style is suited for those who want to stand out from the crowd and make a statement.
The Feathered Mullet
The feathered mullet features layers of hair that are cut to create a feathered effect. This style adds volume and texture to the hair, resulting in a softer, more feminine look. It is a popular choice for those with fine or thin hair.
The Mohawk Mullet
The mohawk mullet combines elements of the mohawk and mullet hairstyles. The hair on the sides is shaved or cut very short, while the hair on top is left long and styled into a mullet. This style is bold and attention-grabbing, making it suitable for those who want to make a statement.
The Party in the Back
This variation of the mullet features a short, styled front with extreme length in the back. The transition from the short front to the long back is typically abrupt, creating a dramatic and distinctive look. It is popular among rockers and those who like to make a statement with their hair.
| Type |
Description |
| Business Mullet |
Subtle mullet with short, conservative top and longer back. |
| Short Mullet |
Shorter version of the classic mullet with balanced length. |
| Asymmetrical Mullet |
Edgy style with one side shorter than the other. |
| Feathered Mullet |
Layered haircut with a feathered effect, adding volume and texture. |
| Mohawk Mullet |
Combines elements of the mohawk and mullet, with shaved sides and a long mullet top. |
| Party in the Back |
Short, styled front with extreme length in the back, creating a dramatic transition. |
The Cultural Impact of the Mullet
The mullet haircut has had a significant cultural impact, especially in the 1980s and 1990s. It has been associated with a variety of different subcultures and lifestyles.
Popularity in the 1980s and 1990s
The mullet haircut was at its peak of popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. It was worn by a wide range of celebrities and athletes, including Billy Ray Cyrus, Rod Stewart, and David Bowie. The mullet was also popular among blue-collar workers and people living in rural areas.
Symbol of Rebellion
For some, the mullet was a symbol of rebellion. It was a way to express individuality and to reject mainstream fashion trends. The mullet was often worn by punks and other countercultural groups.
Associated with Sports and Blue-Collar Labor
The mullet was also associated with sports and blue-collar labor. It was often worn by hockey players, football players, and construction workers. The mullet was seen as a hairstyle that was practical and durable.
Decline in Popularity
The mullet began to decline in popularity in the late 1990s. It was increasingly seen as a dated and unfashionable hairstyle. However, the mullet has never completely disappeared, and it continues to be worn by a small but dedicated group of people.
Popular Culture References
The mullet has been referenced in popular culture numerous times. It has been featured in movies, TV shows, and songs. Some notable examples include:
| Work |
Year |
| The Simpsons |
1989 |
| Wayne’s World |
1992 |
| Billy Ray Cyrus’s “Achy Breaky Heart” |
1992 |
How to Get a Mullet Haircut
The mullet haircut, with its signature short hair in the front and long hair in the back, has made a resurgence in recent years. Whether you’re looking for a bold and edgy look or simply want to embrace the nostalgia of the 1980s, here’s how to get a mullet haircut:
- Determine the length of your mullet. The length of the back of your mullet is up to you. Some people prefer a short mullet that ends just below the nape of the neck, while others prefer a longer mullet that reaches their shoulders or even their waist.
- Cut the sides and top of your hair short. Use clippers or scissors to cut the sides and top of your hair to the desired length. The length of the sides and top will determine the contrast between the short and long hair.
- Section off the back of your hair. Tie or clip the top and sides of your hair out of the way. The back of your hair will be the part that forms the mullet.
- Cut the back of your hair to the desired length. Use scissors to cut the back of your hair to the desired length. Be careful not to cut it too short, as you can always trim it later if needed.
- Blend the mullet. Once the back of your hair is cut, use scissors to blend the short and long hair together. This will create a smooth transition between the two lengths.
- Style your mullet. You can style your mullet in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. Some popular styles include leaving it natural, using a blow dryer and brush to create a voluminous look, or using hairspray or gel to create a slicked-back style.
People Also Ask About How to Get a Mullet Haircut
How do I maintain a mullet haircut?
Mullet haircuts require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. You should get your mullet trimmed every 4-6 weeks to prevent the back from getting too long and the sides from getting too short. You can also use a blow dryer and brush to style your mullet and keep it looking neat and tidy.
What are some variations of the mullet haircut?
There are many variations of the mullet haircut, including the short mullet, the long mullet, the party mullet, and the business mullet. The short mullet is a shorter version of the traditional mullet, with the back of the hair ending just below the nape of the neck. The long mullet is a longer version of the traditional mullet, with the back of the hair reaching the shoulders or even the waist. The party mullet is a mullet that is worn with a lot of hairspray or gel, creating a voluminous and edgy look. The business mullet is a mullet that is worn with a more conservative style, with the back of the hair being shorter and more blended.
What are some celebrities who have worn mullet haircuts?
Celebrities who have worn mullet haircuts include Billy Ray Cyrus, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Rod Stewart, and Patrick Swayze. In recent years, the mullet has made a resurgence in popularity, with celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Rihanna, and Justin Bieber sporting the hairstyle.
